UTILITY HANDBAG

Abstract

A 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system for providing a foundation handbag, an insulated secondary inner handbag with an adjustable compartment separate compartments for storage and organization of items such as wallet, cosmetics, baby items, clothing, shoes, toiletry and/or food within the handbag system. The 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system generally includes a foundation handbag, insulated secondary inner handbag with an adjustable compartment system.

Description

FIELD OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is directed to and relates generally to handbag systems and more specifically it relates to a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system for providing a foundation handbag, an insulated secondary inner handbag with an adjustable compartment system to create separate compartments for storage and organization of items such as wallet, cosmetics, baby items, clothing, shoes, toiletry and/or food within the handbag system.

BACKGROUND OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Various types of handbags and purses have been developed to meet the needs of individuals for carrying personal belongings. These handbags typically include a main compartment for storing items, a closure structure for securing the contents of the main compartment, and carrying handles for ease of transportation. However, conventional handbags often lack versatility and fail to provide efficient organization and accessibility to the stored items.

Previous approaches have attempted to address these limitations by incorporating divider structures within the main compartment of the handbag. These divider structures are designed to separate the main compartment into multiple compartments, allowing for better organization of items. However, these divider structures are often fixed and do not provide the flexibility to adjust the size and configuration of the compartments based on the user's needs.

Additionally, some handbags have incorporated removable divider structure to create separate compartments. These divider structures allow for the division of the main compartment into upper and lower compartments, providing a degree of organization. However, these previous approaches have limitations in terms of accessing the lower compartment when the main compartment is divided. The access to the lower compartment is often restricted or inconvenient, making it difficult for users to retrieve items stored in the lower compartment.

In summary, previous approaches have attempted to address the organization and accessibility issues of handbags by incorporating divider structures. However, none of these approaches have provided a comprehensive solution that combines the features described in this disclosure for convenient access to the lower compartment.

SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The utility handbag disclosed herein comprises a main compartment with a closure structure, carrying handles, and a divider structure that separates the main compartment into an upper and lower compartment. The divider structure includes an integrally formed zipper, creating an upper compartment bag and a lower compartment bag. The handbag also includes an access flap for accessing the lower compartment when the main compartment is divided. The zipper within the divider structure can be oriented in an open or closed position, allowing the upper compartment to be fully interconnected with the lower compartment and providing access to the lower compartment from the upper compartment. The access flap to the lower compartment is through a side flap with an upper keeper flap, and also through a front flap and pouch, and which also includes improvements that overcome the limitations of prior utility handbags, is now met by a new, useful, and non-obvious invention.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a utility handbag, including: a main compartment having a front wall, a back wall opposing the front wall, a first and second side walls opposing each other, a bottom attached to all of the walls, and a top; a closure structure for closing the top of the main compartment; a pair of carrying handles attached, respectively one each to two opposing walls of the main compartment; a divider structure for separating the main compartment into an upper compartment and a lower compartment; a zipper integrally formed within the divider structure of the utility handbag, the divider structure forming an upper compartment bag and a lower compartment bag; and an access flap for accessing the lower compartment when the main compartment is divided, wherein the zipper of the divider structure is capable of being oriented in an open and closed position thereby allowing the upper compartment to become fully interconnected with the lower compartment and permitting access to the lower compartment from the upper compartment, where the divider structure is connected to at least one inside wall of the main compartment, wherein the access flap to the lower compartment is through a side flap having an upper keeper flap, and wherein the access flap to the lower compartment is through a front flap and pouch.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a utility handbag, further including a V-shaped opening, one or more zippers border at least a portion of the V-shaped opening.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a backpack necklace system, including: a backpack; a first strap, the first strap connected to the backpack; a second strap, the second strap connected to the backpack; a pouch; a first length of material, the first length of material having a first end having a first fastener located opposite a second end having a second fastener; a second length of material, the second length of material having a first end having a third fastener located opposite a second end having a fourth fastener, and wherein the pouch is removably connected to the first length of material and the second length of material and the pouch is configured to be positioned in front of a user's torso when the backpack is worn by a user.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a handbag necklace system, including: a handbag; a first strap, the first strap connected to the handbag; a second strap, the second strap connected to the handbag; a pouch; a first length of material, the first length of material having a first end having a first fastener located opposite a second end having a second fastener; and a second length of material, the second length of material having a first end having a third fastener located opposite a second end having a fourth fastener, and wherein the pouch is removably connected to the first length of material and the second length of material, the pouch is configured to be oriented in a first position, the first position being the pouch retained in a compartment of the handbag, the pouch is configured to be oriented in a second position, the second position being the pouch located on an outer wall surface of the handbag.

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a handbag, including a panel connected to an outer wall surface of the handbag, the panel have two opposing sides connected to the handbag and two opposing openings; and one or more fasteners, the one or more fasteners configured to orient one or more openings of the two opposing openings in an open or a closed orientation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, advantages and operation of the present invention will become readily apparent and further understood from a reading of the following detailed description with the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a front view of the present handbag invention.

FIG. 1B is a back view or the handbag of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the handbag when open showing the removable divider floor.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the handbag of FIG. 2 with the removable divider floor partially open.

FIG. 4A is a front cut-away view of the handbag with the divider floor in a horizontal position.

FIG. 4B is a front cut-away view of the handbag with the divider floor released from the sidewalls.

FIG. 4C is a side cut-away view of the handbag with the divider folded against the end wall.

FIG. 5A is a front perspective view with the front flap open and the secondary inner bag partially out of the bottom compartment.

FIG. 5B is a front partial cut-away view of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a rear cut-away view of the bag with the divider floor against the bottom and partially raised.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the divider floor separated from the bag.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of insulated secondary bag with its expanded bottom.

FIG. 7B is a rear perspective view of the insulated secondary bag with the zipper loosened permitting the bag to expand at its bottom.

FIG. 7C is a rear perspective with the top zipper partially open.

FIG. 8A shows an alternate embodiment of the handbag with an additional side flap at one end.

FIG. 8B shows that the insulated secondary inner bag can be removed through this side flap as well as the front flap.

FIGS. 8C, 8D and 8E show three stages for an inner lining with a draw string which permits it to hang at various lengths within the handbag.

FIG. 9A is a perspective cut-away view of the handbag with the divider floor secured in place.

FIG. 9B is a perspective cut-away view of the handbag with the divider floor released on three sides and partially folded.

FIG. 9C is a perspective cut-away view of the handbag with the divider floor folded against an end of the handbag.

FIG. 10A is a perspective cut-away view of an alternative mounting for the divider floor along the back wall of the handbag with hook and loop releases on the other three sides.

FIG. 10B is a view of FIG. 10A with the hook and loop releases released and the divider floor folded down.

FIG. 11A is a view of FIG. 10B with the hook and loop sleeve substituted for the hook and loop releases of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B is an alternative to FIG. 10B with the divider floor released and partially folded down.

FIG. 12A shows a perspective of the bottom floor of the handbag with two separator flaps secured to the face thereof.

FIG. 12B shows perspective cut-away view of the handbag with the two separator flaps held to the divider floor to make three compartment sections in the lower compartment.

FIG. 13A is a top perspective view of the handbag having a divider panel having a zipper oriented in a closed position.

FIG. 13B is a top perspective view of the handbag having a divider panel having a zipper oriented in an open position.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the backpack necklace system 1400 with the pouch oriented in front of a user when the backpack is worn by the user.

FIG. 14B is a view of the backpack necklace system 1400 with the backpack connected to the pouch.

FIG. 14C is a view of the pouch from the backpack necklace system 1400.

FIG. 14D is another view of the pouch, from the backpack necklace system 1400.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the backpack necklace system having a backpack retaining a pouch.

FIG. 16 depicts a front view of a handbag necklace system.

FIG. 17 depicts another view of a handbag necklace system.

FIG. 18A depicts an embodiment of the handbag system.

FIG. 18B depicts another view of an embodiment of the handbag system.

FIG. 18C depicts still another view of a handbag system.

FIG. 19A depicts an embodiment of a handbag system.

FIG. 19B depicts an open view of the embodiment of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19C depicts a view of an interior pouch removed from the embodiment of FIG. 19A.

FIG. 19D depicts another view of an interior pouch removed from the embodiment of FIG. 19A.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Identical elements in the various figures may be identified with the same reference numerals. Reference will now be made in detail to each embodiment of the present invention. Such embodiments are provided by way of explanation of the present invention, which is not intended to be limited thereto. In fact, those of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate upon reading the present specification and viewing the present drawings that various modifications and variations can be made thereto.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the,” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one. A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

The present invention is a 2-in-1 utility bag 10, FIG. 1, having a foundation handbag, an insulated secondary inner handbag, and an adjustable compartment system.

a. Foundation Bag

The foundation handbag 10. FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, 3, and 4A, has a main compartment 11 with access at the top 11A of the bag. This compartment may be divided into an upper compartment 24 and a lower compartment 25. The interior of the bag is also accessible through the front of the bag 10, or alternately through the side of the bag with a front flap 13 closure and a side flap closure 61, FIG. 8A. A pair of handles 14, FIGS. 1A, 1B, are used to carry the bag 10. The bag 10 also includes inside pockets, side pockets and front and back pockets. It can hold a secondary inner bag 40, FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 7A-7C, which is removable and may be insulated. Also included is an adjustable interior dividing system.

Access to the main compartment 11 of the handbag 10 is through the top 11a of the handbag, which can be held closed by means of a zipper 12, FIGS. 1B and 2. The back of the bag 10 can have a shallow outside pocket 15a accessible through another zipper 12a, FIG. 1A, extending partially, across the back of the bag. Additional outside pockets 15b, 15c are located on each end of the bag 10.

In addition to the pair of handles 14, the bag 10 can have a shoulder strap 14a attached to mounting loops 14b secured one each to each end of the bag 10. The strap can be lengthened or shortened by adding or removing a series of metal links 14c, FIG. 1b. The bag 10 can have footed bottoms (bottom feet) 17 and the front flap 13 is held closed with a strap-type fastener 18. This fastener can have a slide-through spade end with a spring button 18a. FIG. 2. Alternately, a snap engagement can be used for the spade end.

The handbag 10 main compartment 11 can be divided into an upper compartment 24 and a lower compartment 25, FIGS. 4A, 4B, using an adjustable upper dividing system 20 and an adjustable lower dividing system 30, FIGS. 3, 4A, 4B, 6A and 12B. The upper dividing system 20 includes a divider floor 21, the interim-bag-height zipper 22, and a snap fastener 23 for holding the divider floor 21 to the side of the bag when the zipper 22 is released. In the alternative to a zipper 22 and the snap fastener 23, any number of other fasteners can be used such as hook-and-loop, clips and other known fasteners. The upper dividing system 20 is used when the owner wants to compartmentalize the interior of the bag 10. The zipper 22 extends along two sides of the divider floor 21 with the open end of the divider floor having fasteners 23a, 23b to attach the divider floor to the opposite side wall of the interior 11 of the bag, or alternately the zipper 22 extends around two sides and one end of the divider floor 21, FIGS. 4A and 4B. The remaining end 21a of the divider floor 21 is permanently attached to the interior side wall of the bag 10 and permits the floor 21 to fold against an interior wall to stand out of the way. The divider floor 21 can either be attached to an end wall of the interior of the bag 10, FIG. 4B, or attached to a back wall, but preferably the side wall adjacent the flap 13 opening.

A plurality of interior pockets 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, can be positioned on the inside walls of the upper compartment 24, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 6A.

The lower dividing system 30 is used to create additional compartments within the lower compartment 25 of the handbag 10. The lower dividing system 30 includes one or more folding panels or flaps 31 attached to the bottom floor 35 of the bag 10, FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 6A, and capable of being folded into an upright position, FIGS. 4B and 4C. A single flap 31, FIG. 6A, can divide the lower compartment 25 into a right compartment 33 and a left compartment 34. The divider floor 21 is required to be in position for holding the flap 31 upright. The flap 31 carries a fastener structure 32 for engaging the bottom face of the divider floor 21 for securing the flap 31 in the upright position separating the lower compartment 25 into two sub-compartments, the right one 33 and a left one 34, within the lower compartment of the handbag 10.

With the lower compartment flap 31 folded down, or not a part of the bag 10, the lower compartment can hold an insulated secondary inner bag 40 which is removable from the bag 10, either through its open top, or through the front sidewall of the bag closed with the front flap 13, FIGS. 5A and 5B. Thus, opening the front flap 13 gives access to the interior 11 of the bag at its lower compartment 25, this access being through an access opening (not shown) in the front of the bag 10. Surrounding this opening is a pouch 13a which folds outwardly when released by the front flap 13. The pouch 13a sides fold against the front of the bag 10 to close the pouch 13a and be secured by the front flap 13 and the fastener 18, and to the insulated secondary inner handbag 40 situated in the lower compartment 25.

The insulated secondary inner handbag 40 can be removed through the pouch 13a once the front flap 13 is opened and carried separately. The front edge of the pouch 13a includes a pair of clamping clips 19, FIG. 5B, which are attachable to the insulated secondary inner handbag 40 so that the secondary bag 40 is pulled outwardly when the pouch 13a is pulled outward. The above-recited dividing system and insulated secondary inner bag may be incorporated into other structures, such as luggage, cosmetic cases, travel bags, athletic bags, and totes.

An alternative access 60. FIGS. 8A and 8B, can be provided to the insulated secondary bag 40 in the lower compartment 25. This access includes a side flap 61 which pivots outwardly and an upper keeper flap 61A, which keeps the side flap against the gusset of the bag 10.

b. Adjustable Upper Dividing System

The upper divider floor 21 is an adjustable upper or panel fixedly attached to the inside upper and lower compartments 24 and 25 within the handbag system. When the divider is unzipped and in an open position it pivots or folds at the fold line 26 downward to create a single compartment. When the divider 21 is in its open position, the user may connect or fasten 23 the divider 21 to the back wall or gusset of the foundation handbag to hold the divider in place.

An alternative to the adjustable dividing system is an adjustable lining system 50, FIGS. 8C, 8D and 8E. An adjustable lining 51 extends downwardly into the main compartment 11 from the top 11A of the bag 10 to create and upper and lower compartments. The lining is bag-shaped or pouch-shaped with walls and a closed bottom. The inside of the lining forms the upper compartment 55a which the space below the lining bottom forms the lower compartment 55. The lining includes a drawstring 52 which permits it to be adjusted in length from a distance near the top 11A of the bag 10 to extend to the very bottom. FIG. 8E. The drawstring includes a lock 53 for locking the length (extension) of the lining 51.

When used, the lining covers the inside walls of the main compartment 11. The drawstrings 52 are stitched into the lining 51 at a gusset 56 sewn into the inside wall of the bag 10. The locks 53 to hold the drawstrings 52 and thus the lining 51 in place when pulled to contract or released to expand. To contract the lining system the user would unlock the locking system 53, pull the drawstrings in an upward position, adjusting the lining to the desired height, then position and release the locks to hold the lining in place.

The user may use fasteners 23 to snap the lining 51 to the wall of the foundation bag creating an additional pocket in the upward compartment of the foundation handbag. In its contracted position, the lining system can create additional pockets using fasteners such as snap, hook-and-loop, zipper or any other known fasteners. To expand the lining 51 the user would unsnap the fasteners 23 and release the locks 53, push down on the lining system to extend the lining to the length of the bag creating one compartment. In this configuration, the user may carry the handbag as a single tote.

When the divider floor 21 is held in position by a zipper 22, FIG. 9A, the zipper 22 system may be implemented with a pair of zipper sliders 22A, 22B, FIG. 9A, one for the zipper teeth on each side of the divider floor. The sliders 22a, 22b, are connected to a pull handle 22c so that they act in unison from the gusset 56 attachment wall of the bag 10 to the mid-point of the opposite wall. In the arrangement, there are two half-length zippers 22 securing the divider floor 21.

c. Adjustable Lower Dividing System

When the secondary inner bag 40 is not used, an adjustable lower divider (or flap) insert 30FIG. 6B, can be affixed to the bottom floor 35 of the bag 10, FIG. 6A, to be used to create additional compartments in the lower compartment 25 as recited above. When the flap 31 on the lower dividing system insert 31 stands vertically, creates separate compartments. When it is laid down, it opens the lower compartment 25 to a single compartment.

The insert 30 can be attached permanently or temporarily to the bottom 35 of the bag 10 by stitching, magnetic snaps, hook-and-loop, or other fastening mechanism. The flap 31 can have snap fastener 32 at its proximal end and a mating snap fastener 32a at its distal end, with a fold line 26a at mid-length of the insert 30. Adding additional flaps, FIGS. 12A and 12B, to the lower dividing system can create additional compartments within the lower compartment of the handbag system.

When the flap 31 is pivoted upward, to stand upright, it can be attached to the bottom face of the divider floor 21 with a hook and loop or other type of fastener structure. Alternatively, the flap 31 can be attached the back wall of the main compartment 11 with any of several types of releasable fasteners. The adjustable lower dividing system is only used when the insulated secondary inner bag is removed from the foundation bag. Alternatively, several flaps 31a, 31b may be attached to the insert 30a, FIG. 12A. This insert 30a can be permanently stitched to the bottom 35 of the handbag with a plurality of snap fasteners 32b. The multiple flaps 31a, 31b can be secured in an upright position of affixed in a folded down position, similar to the single flap 31 system described above. The several flaps create several smaller sub-compartments when such compartments are desired.

d. Insulated Secondary Inner Bag

The insulated secondary inner bag, FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, is used as another means for storing and carrying items separate from items kept in the upper compartment of the handbag. The secondary inner handbag is accessed through the front flap of the bag (or alternative side). The secondary inner handbag is removable and can be carried separately from the handbag 10.

The secondary bag 40 is expandable in height, FIG. 7B, upon the release of a side zipper 42a, adjacent a bottom sidewall flap 47, which is opened to expand the secondary bag 40. The secondary bag 40 includes a pair of handles 44 for carrying the bag 40, and has a series of side and end exterior pockets. 43, 43a, and 43b, as well as interior pockets on the inside of the bag 40 (not shown). The rear exterior pocket 43 is accessible through a rear zipper 42b.

The secondary bag 40 may be insulated to keep food items cool or warm. Nonfood items may also be stored in the secondary bag such as baby items, clothing, shoes, cosmetics, toys, etc.

The insulated secondary inner handbag 40 is a smaller handbag intended to be stored in the lower compartment 25 of the handbag 10. Once removed from the handbag 10, the secondary handbag 40 may be extended in height by unzipping a lower zipper 42a. The secondary handbag 40, when closed (unexpanded) 46, FIG. 7A, will fit into the lower compartment 25 of the handbag 10. The open expanded bag 47 may be used when carrying the insulated secondary inner bag 40, separately. The insulated secondary inner bag 40 allows the user to organize and separate items stored in the upper compartment from items stored in the lower compartment of the foundation handbag. The secondary handbag 40 includes rings 45. FIGS. 7A and 7B, to be attached to the clips 19 on the pouch 13a wall to assist in removing the secondary handbag 40 from the main compartment 11, when the front flap 13 is open and the pouch 13a is pulled forward.

Access of the interior 41 of the secondary bag 40 is through a zipper 42 extending along the top of the main compartment 41. The insulated secondary handbag 40 is made with materials to help keep food items cool or warm.

An alternative to the secondary inner bag 40 is to insulate the lower compartment 25 of the main compartment 11 of the handbag 10. This may be done in the presence or absence of compartments, thereby allowing the user to store food items in the handbag without the need for the secondary inner bag 40. The secondary handbag 40 may also be a collapsible and/or foldable with or without insulation. The secondary inner bag 40 may also be exchanged with several smaller bags that can be stored in the handbag 10 main compartment 11 when smaller compartments of features.

e. Alternative Lining System

An alternative adjustable lining system acts as a separator creating multiple compartments within the handbag system. The lining system is adjustable by pulling the interlocking drawstrings to contract the lining system creating upper and lower compartments.

The lining system can also create additional pockets within the upper compartment when it is secured in a contracted (withdrawn) position using hook-and-loop, snaps, magnets or other fasteners. The interlocking drawstrings can be released to expand the lining system to the length of the foundation handbag when the secondary inner handbag is not in use thereby using the foundation bag as a tote with one compartment.

The adjustable lining system is made of fabric material referred to as the lining 51 and includes drawstrings 52, locks 53 and fasteners 54. The lining 51 is permanently secured to the top 11a of the bag by stitching. Snap type fasteners 54 secure the lining 51 at the top 11a of the bag. The lining covers the inside walls of the main compartment 11. The drawstrings 52 are stitched into the lining 51 at a gusset 56 on the wall of the handbag 10. Attached to the drawstrings are locks 53 to hold the lining system in place when pulled to contract or release when expand. To contract (withdraw) the lining system a user would unlock the locks 53, pull the drawstrings 52 in an upward direction thereby adjusting the lining 51 to the desired height, then position and release the locking system to hold the lining in place. The user may use additional fasteners 54 to snap the lining 51 to the wall of the main compartment 11 of the bag 10, thereby creating an additional pocket in the upward compartment of the foundation handbag. In its contracted position, the lining system can further create additional pockets using additional fasteners.

To expand the lining system 50 the user would unsnap the pocket fasteners and release the locks 53, push down on the lining system to extend the lining to the length of the main compartment 11 of the foundation handbag 10 thereby creating one compartment.

f. Alternate Access

An alternative access 60 to the secondary inner bag may include an opening on the side of the foundation handbag 10. An alternate access 60 to the secondary inner handbag 40 would be through a side flap structure 61, 61a, FIG. 8B.

g. Connections of Main Elements and Sub-Elements

The zipper 12, front flap 13, handles 14, outside pockets 15, footed bottoms 17, fasteners 18 are connected to the foundation handbag 10, FIGS. 1A and 1B. The fastener 19 is connected to the front flap 13 which is connected to the foundation handbag 10, FIG. 2. The footed bottoms 17 are connected to the bottom of the foundation handbag, FIGS. 1A and 1B. A pocket is positioned in the back of the foundation handbag, FIG. 1A. Clips 19 are attached to the inner wall of the inside flap 13, FIG. 5b. The adjustable dividing system 20 is connected to the wall or gusset of the main compartment 11 of the foundation handbag, FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C. The dividing system creates an upper compartment 24 and lower compartment 25, FIGS. 4A, 9A, and 10A. The lower dividing system 30 creates a right and left compartment within the lower compartment of the foundation handbag when the flap is upright and is connected to the bottom.

The insulated secondary inner bag 40 is connected to the inside front flap 13 by clips 19, FIG. 5B. When the front flap 13 is opened the secondary bag 40 attached to the pouch 13a by the clips 19 pulls the secondary bag 40 forward, FIGS. 5A, 5B. The secondary inner bag 40 is then removable from foundation handbag 10, to be carried separately. FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C. The handles 44, pockets 43, zipper 42, and rings 45 are connected to the secondary inner bag 40. The secondary inner bag 40 has a main compartment 41 which is accessible by zipper 42, and a back pocket 43.

h. Alternative Embodiments

The alternate lining system 50 is connected to the main compartment 11 of the foundation handbag 10, FIGS. 8C, 8D, and 8E, wherein the lining is connected to the inside walls to create two compartments. The lining system may be expanded or contracted, or may be removed altogether. In the contracted position, the lining 51 creates an upper and lower compartment, and in the expanded position, the user may carry the foundation handbag as a tote with one compartment. The alternate access 60 to the secondary bag is through a side flap 61.

The divider floor 21, can be attached to the inside walls of the foundation handbag main compartment with a hook and loop, or Velcro® type releasable securement on three sides of the floor, FIGS. 10A and 10B. Where the divider floor is permanently attached 63 to the back wall, the floor merely folds down against the back wall to open up the main compartment 11. As a further alternative a series of Velcro® type sleeves 64 can be spaced about the three sides of the divider floor to engage fabric bars 65 positioned on the three interior walls 66a, 66b, 66c of the main compartment 11.

i. Operation

The 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system is a women's multipurpose handbag system that can be used as a combination handbag eliminating the need to carry additional bags at the same time. The foundation handbag features a removable insulated secondary inner handbag, adjustable upper compartment system, and adjustable lower compartment system. An adjustable upper dividing compartment creates two distinctly defined storage areas, an upper and a lower compartments within the foundation handbag. In the adjustable lower compartment, there can be created a plurality separately defined areas. The user can access the upper system through the zipper attached at the top of the handbag. The user can access the lower system through the front flap or a side flap. The inner bag is accessed and pulled outward with the assistance of clips attaching the inner bag to the front face of the pouch.

Whereas women will purchase and carry multiple bags simultaneously to store items such as a wallet, keys, lunch, shoes, baby items, gym attire and travel toiletries, the 2-in-1 handbag with its adjustable compartment systems provides the ability to store items used for these purposes in one foundation bag. The 2-in-1 handbag system of the present invention is designed to provide functionality for the purpose of separating and organizing many different items in one bag. The secondary inner handbag can be insulated to keep food items cool or warm, and can be used to store commonly carried items that the user would like to separate from other items. There are pockets and compartments for such items as food, a wallet, a cell phone, keys, glasses, shoes, and other personal items, such as clothing and toiletry items, baby bottles, and toys.

ELEMENTS LIST

• • 10: Foundation Handbag
  • 11: Main Compartment
  • 11 a Top of bag
  • 12: Top Zipper
  • 12 a: Shallow Pocket Zipper
  • 13: Front Flap
  • 13 a: Pouch
  • 14: Handles
  • 14 a: Shoulder Strap
  • 14 b: Mounting Loops for Strap
  • 14 c: Metal Links
  • 15 a: Outside Back Pocket
  • 15 b: Outside End Pocket
  • 15 c: Outside End Pocket
  • 16 a: Inside Pocket
  • 16 b: Inside Pocket
  • 16 c: Inside Pocket
  • 16 d: Inside Pocket
  • 17: Footed Bottoms
  • 18: Strap Fastener
  • 18 a: Spring Release Button
  • 19: Clamping Clips
  • 20: Adjustable Upper Dividing System
  • 21: Divider Floor
  • 21 a: Remaining End of Divider Floor
  • 22: Divider Floor Zipper
  • 22 a: Slider for zipper
  • 22 b: Slider for zipper
  • 22 c: Pull
  • 23: Snap Fastener
  • 23 a: Second Snap Fastener
  • 23 b: Snap or Magnetic Fastener
  • 23 c: Snap or Magnetic Fastener
  • 23 d: Snap or Magnetic Fastener
  • 24: Upper Compartment
  • 25: Lower Compartment
  • 26: Fold
  • 26 a: Fold Line
  • 30: Adjustable Lower Dividing System
  • 30 a: Lower Dividing System Insert
  • 31: Flap Folding Panel
  • 31 a: Flap
  • 31 b: Flap
  • 32: Fastener
  • 32 a: Mating Snap Fastener
  • 32 b: Snap fastener
  • 33: Right Compartment
  • 34: Left Compartment
  • 35: Floor of Handbag
  • 40: Insulated Secondary Inner Bag
  • 41: Main Compartment
  • 42: Inner Bag Top Zipper
  • 42 a: Side Zipper
  • 42 b: Rear Zipper
  • 43: Exterior Pocket
  • 43 a: Exterior Pocket
  • 43 b: Exterior Pocket
  • 44: Handles
  • 45: Handle Rings
  • 46: Closed Expanded Bag
  • 47: Open Expanded Bag
  • 50: Alternative Lining System
  • 51: Lining
  • 52: Drawstring
  • 53: Locks
  • 54: Fasteners
  • 55: Lower Compartment
  • 55 a: Upper Compartment
  • 56: Gusset
  • 60: Alternate Access
  • 61: Side Flap
  • 61 a: Upper Keeper Flap
  • 62: Velcros and/or hook and loop release/attachment Type Securement
  • 63: Permanent Attachment
  • 64: Velcros Type Sleeves
  • 65: Fabric Bar
  • 66 a: Interior Side Wall
  • 66 b: Interior Front Wall
  • 66 c: Interior Side Wall
  • 66 d: Interior Back Wall

In another embodiment, the utility handbag may introduce innovative features that augment prior foundational 2-in-1 handbag systems. The following elaborations are designed to extend the original objectives of the invention by enhancing its versatility and functionality.

I. Additional Adjustable Dividing Systems for Creating Upper and Lower Compartments

Building on the original objective of providing a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system, this embodiment introduces several additional dividing systems that can be temporarily and/or permanently attached to the inner lining and/or walls of the foundational handbag.

Feature 1: Hook and Loop Attachment Layer

FIGS. 10A, 10B demonstrates the hook and loop attachment layer system. The first revised object aims to diversify the 2-in-1 handbag system with an adjustable hook and loop attachment layer. This hook and loop attachment layer may be either permanently and/or temporarily affixed to the inner lining of the foundational handbag, offering users the ability to create or dismantle upper and lower compartments within the handbag system as needed.

Feature 2: Double Zipper Mechanism

FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C illustrate the double zipper system. Another object of this disclosure seeks to offer an additional compartment dividing system via a double zipper mechanism. This zipper system may be permanently and/or temporarily attached to the inner walls of the foundational handbag, thus enabling the delineation of distinct upper and lower compartments within the 2-in-1 handbag system.

Feature 3: Single Zipper Embedded in Middle Layer P FIGS. 13A and 13B shows the single zipper system 1300. An even further revised object of this disclosure introduces a single zipper divider (panel) embedded in the middle layer of the foundational handbag creating an upper and lower compartment bag. This single zipper divider structure 1302 is designed to separate upon unzipping the divider structure, allowing the upper compartment to become fully interconnected with the lower compartment within the 2-in-1 handbag system.

II. Introduction of the 3-In-1 “Backpack Necklace” and “Handbag Necklace”

FIGS. 14A and 14B depict the backpack necklace system 1400 having pouch 1408 removably connected and/or attached to the shoulder straps 1402 of backpack 1404 with a first length of material 1406a and a second length of material 1406b including, but not limited to, a chain, a rope, a cord, a wire. The lengths of material 1406a and 1406b may have one end having a first fastener connected to pouch 1408 located opposite a second fastener connected to backpack 1404.

FIGS. 14C and 14D illustrate pouch 1408 of the backpack necklace system 1400 removably detached from the backpack and being used as a separate purse with connected straps. For example, a fastener of an end of the first length of material is fastened to a fastener of an end of the second length of material to form a purse with a purse strap.

FIG. 15 shows backpack necklace system 1400 with backpack 1404 having pouch 1408 attached as a coin pouch inside the backpack.

FIG. 16 depicts an embodiment of a “handbag necklace” or a handbag necklace system 1600 having pouch 1602 having at least 2 lengths of material 1604a, 1604b attached to the shoulder straps 1606a, 1606b of handbag 1608.

FIG. 17 depicts an embodiment of a “handbag necklace” or a handbag necklace system 1600 having pouch 1602 attached as a coin pouch inside handbag 1608.

Another further revised object aims to diversify the utility of the 2-in-1 handbag system by introducing a “backpack necklace,” and “handbag necklace” a 3-in-1 auxiliary pouch feature.

Feature 1: Backpack and Handbag Necklace Configuration

In the first configuration, the pouch has dual straps that can be temporarily hooked onto two dedicated hooks (can we add that the straps can be connected by any fasteners, not just books) located on the shoulder straps of the bag when utilized in its backpack and handbag mode. This configuration serves to afford users quick and easy access to essential items without requiring the removal of the backpack and handbag from the shoulders.

Feature 2: Detachable Purse Configuration

The second configuration allows the auxiliary pouch to be easily detached from its “backpack necklace” and “handbag necklace” positioning. Upon detachment, the dual straps can be connected, thus transforming the pouch into a standalone purse for separate storage or immediate access to items.

Feature 3: Internal Coin Pouch Configuration

For the third configuration, the auxiliary pouch can be relocated to the interior of the 2-in-1 handbag system and temporarily attached to an interior hook. This renders the pouch as a coin or small item holder within the main compartment of the bag system, thereby enhancing organizational capabilities.

III. Dual-Purpose Rear Pocket

FIGS. 18A, 18B, and 18C illustrate the novel handbag 1800 having a dual-purpose rear pocket 1802 having a first opening located opposite a second opening. A zipper closure may be configured to open and/or close one or more openings of the first opening and/or the second opening.

A further revised object introduces a dual-purpose rear pocket situated on the rear exterior of the 2-in-1 handbag. When zipped, this pocket serves as a secure compartment for storing small items. When unzipped, the pocket expands into a sleeve that can be securely fitted over the handles of a rolling suitcase for convenient transport.

IV. V-Shape Lower Compartment Design

FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, and 19D illustrate novel handbag 1900 having the V-SHAPE lower compartment 1902 for storage.

A further revised design introduces a V-SHAPE style bag with zipper opening to the lower portion of the compartment bag.

An object of the present invention is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system for providing a foundation handbag, an insulated secondary inner handbag with an adjustable compartment system to create separate compartments for storage and organization of items such as wallet, cosmetics, baby items, clothing, shoes, toiletry and/or food within the handbag system.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has a foundation handbag also known as the outer bag housing the insulated secondary inner handbag in the lower compartment of the outer bag.

A further object is of the present invention is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has a removable secondary inner bag that can be expanded in height to provide additional storage space and is insulated to keep food items cool or warm and can be carried as a separate handbag.

Yet, another object of the present invention is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has a front or alternative side flap which opens to access the secondary inner handbag in the lower compartment of the handbag system.

An even further object of the present invention is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has an adjustable dividing system that is permanently or temporarily attached to the inside walls of the foundation handbag to create upper and lower compartments within the handbag system.

Another object is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has a flap(s) hinged to the bottom floor of the foundation handbag that acts as a separator when pulled to a 90 degree angle creating additional compartments within the lower compartment of the handbag system.

Another object is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that has a lower compartment in the handbag system which can be insulated and serve as a food storage compartment when the divider is in its closed position, and the bottom flap is at O degrees to keep food items cool or warm.

Another object is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that can adjust from a single compartment handbag or create a system of compartments within the handbag system.

Another object is to provide a 2-in-1 handbag with an adjustable compartment system that can alternatively include an adjustable lining system that includes an interlocking system to expand or contract the lining in length to create multiple compartments. The adjustable lining system is permanently or temporarily attached to the upper inside walls of the foundation handbag, which expands or contracts in length/depth to create an upper and lower compartment within the handbag system.

Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these objects and advantages are within the scope of the present invention. To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, this invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated while remaining within the scope and intent of the present invention.

It will be further understood that the terms “comprises.” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others or ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the embodiments thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. Similarly, the adjective “another.” when used to introduce an element, is intended to mean one or more elements. The terms “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive such that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

Many changes can be made in the above-described invention without departing from the intent and scope thereof. It is therefore intended that the above description be read in the illustrative sense and not in the limiting sense. Substitutions and changes can be made while still being within the scope and intent of the invention and of the appended claims. In this respect, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the detailed description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein should not be regarded as limiting.

Although this invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of illustration and that numerous changes in the details of construction and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.

Now that the invention has been described,

Claims

1. A utility handbag, comprising: a main compartment having a front wall, a back wall opposing the front wall, a first and second side walls opposing each other, a bottom attached to all of the walls, and a top;a closure structure for closing the top of the main compartment;a pair of carrying handles attached, respectively one each to two opposing walls of the main compartment;a divider structure for separating the main compartment into an upper compartment and a lower compartment;a connector integrally formed within the divider structure of the utility handbag, the divider structure forming an upper compartment bag and a lower compartment bag; andan access flap for accessing the lower compartment when the main compartment is divided, wherein the connector of the divider structure is capable of being oriented in an open and closed position thereby allowing the upper compartment to become fully interconnected with the lower compartment and permitting access to the lower compartment from the upper compartment, where the divider structure is connected to at least one inside wall of the main compartment, wherein the access flap to the lower compartment is through a side flap having an upper keeper flap, and wherein the access flap to the lower compartment is through a front flap and pouch.

2. The utility handbag of claim 1, further comprising a V-shaped opening, one or more zippers border at least a portion of the V-shaped opening.

3. A backpack necklace system, comprising: a backpack;a first strap, the first strap connected to the backpack;a second strap, the second strap connected to the backpack;a pouch;a first length of material, the first length of material having a first end having a first fastener located opposite a second end having a second fastener;a second length of material, the second length of material having a first end having a third fastener located opposite a second end having a fourth fastener, and wherein the pouch is removably connected to the first length of material and the second length of material and the pouch is configured to be positioned in front of a user's torso when the backpack is worn by a user.

4. A handbag necklace system, comprising: a handbag;a first strap, the first strap connected to the handbag;a second strap, the second strap connected to the handbag;a pouch;a first length of material, the first length of material having a first end having a first fastener located opposite a second end having a second fastener; anda second length of material, the second length of material having a first end having a third fastener located opposite a second end having a fourth fastener, and wherein the pouch is removably connected to the first length of material and the second length of material, the pouch is configured to be oriented in a first position, the first position being the pouch retained in a compartment of the handbag, the pouch is configured to be oriented in a second position, the second position being the pouch located on an outer wall surface of the handbag.

5. A handbag, comprising a panel connected to an outer wall surface of the handbag, the panel have two opposing sides connected to the handbag and two opposing openings; andone or more fasteners, the one or more fasteners configured to orient one or more openings of the two opposing openings in an open or a closed orientation.