Consumer Convenience and Sanitary Pack

Abstract

The invention relates to a sanitary pack device having a plurality of compartments therein. More specifically, the device is comprised of a first compartment located on a front side, wherein the first compartment is accessible from at least one end of the compartment and from a front window. The first compartment is meant to hold a package of sanitary wipes, wherein individual wipes from the package may be dispensed through the front window without having to remove the package from the compartment and without having to reposition the closure mechanism located along the end opening. The device also comprise additional compartments, some having closure mechanisms and some without closure mechanisms, and a strap mechanism for removably attaching the device to an individual.

Claims

1. A consumer convenience product comprising: a body portion comprised of a first pocket having an inner wall, an outer wall, an open end, a closed end, an interior and a closure flap, and a second pocket having an interior wall, an exterior wall, interior space and a flap; and a strap fastening mechanism for securing the body portion to an individual, wherein the strap fastening mechanism is comprised of a strap having both a male fastener and a female fastener.

2. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 1, wherein the first and second pockets are disposed on opposite sides of the strap.

3. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 1, wherein the first and second pockets are secured on a first side of the strap.

4. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 1, wherein the body portion further comprises at least one closure mechanism.

5. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 4, wherein the at least one closure mechanism is selected from a group consisting of a hook and loop fastener, a rope, a magnet, a snap, an adhesive patch or tape, or a combination thereof.

6. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 5 further comprising an anti-microbial coating.

7. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 6, wherein the outer wall further comprises an opening therein for dispensing a product stored in the first pocket through said opening.

8. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 7, wherein the product is a package of sanitary wipes.

9. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 8 further comprising a strap adjusting mechanism.

10. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 9, wherein the strap adjusting mechanism is used to adjust a length of the strap.

11. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 10, wherein at least one of the first and second pockets has a trapezoidal shape.

12. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 11, wherein the closure flap is coextensive with an outline of the first second pocket.

13. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 12 further comprising at least one accessory holder.

14. The consumer convenience product as recited in claim 13, wherein the at least one accessory holder is removably attached to the consumer convenience product.

15. A fanny pack comprising: an inner pocket and an outer pocket, wherein each of the inner and outer pockets have an open end and a closed end with the open end being larger than the closed end and further wherein each of the inner and outer pockets has a trapezoidal or a rectangular shape; a waist strap having a closure; and an accessory holder disposed adjacent one of the inner and outer pockets or the waist strap.

16. The fanny pack as recited in claim 15, wherein each of the inner and outer pockets have a closure flap and a closure mechanism.

17. The fanny pack as recited in claim 16, wherein the closure mechanism is selected from a group consisting of a hook and loop fastener, a rope, a magnet, a snap, an adhesive patch or tape, or a combination thereof.

18. The fanny pack as recited in claim 17 further comprising an anti-microbial coating.

19. A sanitary carrier pack comprising: a plurality of sanitary convenience items; an inner pocket and an outer pocket with at least one of the plurality of sanitary convenience items fitting within at least one of the inner and outer pockets, wherein the at least one of the inner and outer pockets comprises a transparent portion and an opening in the transparent portion; a closure flap and a closure mechanism provided for each of the inner and outer pockets; and an accessory holder provided for holding a consumer convenience item.

20. The sanitary carrier pack as recited in claim 19 further comprising an anti-microbial coating.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the rear or back surface of the device is shown with an open pocket and a face mask extending outwardly therefrom;

[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the front surface of the device is shown with a flap in an open position to expose the pocket window;

[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the rear or back surface of the device is shown;

[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the front surface of the device is shown with the flap in an open position; and

[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the rear or back surface of the device is shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0025] As noted above, there is a long-felt need in the art for a consumer convenience and sanitary pack device similar to a fanny pack that allows a user to easily access certain items transported thereby without rummaging or feeling around in a pocket, and that reduces the potential spread of germs, viruses, infectious diseases and other harmful substances. More specifically, there is a long felt need in the art for a consumer convenience and sanitary pack device that contains a compartment that opens to the outside and allows the user to access the same without having to open a zippered pocket or other closure mechanism. Additionally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a consumer convenience and sanitary pack device that provides a mechanism to allow the user to access a bottle or other small container (e.g., hand sanitizer) without having to reach into a compartment or risk cross contaminating other items. Furthermore, there is a long felt need in the art for a consumer convenience and sanitary pack device that provides a mechanism to securely hold the user's cell phone or other smart device while keeping said device in an easily accessible location along the device. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a consumer convenience and sanitary pack device that is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and both safe and easy to use.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the rear or back surface of the device 100 is shown with an open pocket and a face mask 160 extending outwardly therefrom. More specifically, the device 100 is preferably comprised of a body portion 110 and a belt strap mechanism 140, wherein the body portion is comprised of one or more of a first or an outer main pocket 1100, a second pocket 130 and a holder 120.

[0027] As best shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5, the second pocket 130 is comprised of a front wall 131, a pair of side walls 132, a casing 133, an enclosure 134 and a second pocket opening 135. In a preferred embodiment, the enclosure 134 may be sealed by a zipper but is not so limited, and may also be closed by any other suitable connecting or fastening mechanism including, without limitation, hook/loop fastener materials, snaps, buttons, adhesive patches or tapes and combinations thereof. Further, in a preferred embodiment, the second pocket 130 is comprised of a relatively soft, flexible and breathable material. As shown in FIG. 1, when the enclosure 134 is in the open position, the user 150 is able to place items, such as a mask 160, inside for easy access. The interior of the pockets and enclosure may also be coated with an anti-microbial material or coating 139 such as, but not limited to, MicroBan®.

[0028] As further shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the second pocket 130 is preferably rectangular in shape, but may be any size and configuration that is suitable to the user 150. For example, the interior of the pocket 130 may also be trapezoidal in shape such that the bottom 138 of the second pocket 130 extends outwardly 136 in such a fashion that the bottom 138 of the pocket 130 is wider than the top 137 of the second pocket 130. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the bottom portion 138 of the second pocket 130 has a casing 133 around the lower portion of the side walls 132 for added support. The casing 133 may be comprised of any suitable material that provides support around the side walls 132 so that any items placed in the second pocket 130 will remain safe, secure, and not protrude outside the second pocket 130. The casing 133 may also be comprised of a waterproof material and/or coating.

[0029] As stated above, the device 100 also comprises a belt strap mechanism 140. As best shown in FIGS. 1-5, the belt strap mechanism 140 is preferably comprised of two waist straps 142, a mating buckle 141, a buckle adjustment 143, and a strap adjustment mechanism 144. In a preferred embodiment, each of the waist straps 142 are attached to the top of the body portion 110 and extend outwardly therefrom, whereby when the device 100 is worn, the waist straps 142 are generally parallel to the ground and extend around the body or waist of the user 150. In a preferred embodiment, the first or outer main pocket 1100 would face outward and away from the user 150 as stated above and the second pocket 130 would be positioned immediately adjacent to the body of the user 150 and inwardly facing. The waist straps 142 may be comprised of any suitable and durable material such as, but not limited to, leather, webbing, cord, etc. that allows the waist straps 142 to connect to and pass through the mating buckle 141. The waist straps 142 may also be comprised of an anti-microbial material or coating 139 such as, but not limited to, MicroBan®.

[0030] The mating buckle 141 is a mechanism that allows the outermost ends of the two waist straps 142 to be removably joined to one another to secure the device 100 around the waist or other appendage of the user 150. In a preferred embodiment, the mating buckle 141 is comprised of a male connecting portion and a female connecting portion, wherein the respective connecting portions can be matingly joined together. Once joined, the user 150 would need to depress both sides of the male connecting portion simultaneously to detach the male connection portion from the female connecting portion. Notwithstanding, the mating buckle 141 is not so limited and may be any connecting mechanism suitable for securely connecting two straps together, such as a side-release buckle, belt buckle, etc.

[0031] Each of the two waist straps 142 are adjustable through the presence of a buckle adjustment 143, or strap adjustment 144. FIGS. 1-5 illustrate a buckle adjustment 143 on the male portion of the mating buckle 141. The waist strap 142 may be removed from the buckle adjustment 143 to allow the buckle adjustment 143 to move freely along the length of the waist strap 142, thereby increasing or decreasing the overall length of the waist strap 142. Once the desired waist strap 142 length is achieved, the waist strap 142 would pass through all the buckle adjustment 143 parts, thereby securing the desired waist strap 142 position.

[0032] As best illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, the device 100 is comprised of a holder 120 suitable for supporting small containers, such as hand sanitizer, hand lotion, suntan lotion or other consumer convenience products. More specifically, the holder 120 is preferably generally cylindrical in shape and is comprised of a sleeve portion 121 that extends from a base 122 to an upper sleeve portion 124, and a top opening 123 therein that is sized and configured for holding a small container 180. In a preferred embodiment, the holder 120 is designed for a bottle of hand sanitizer 190, but may also be designed to receive other containers to satisfy the needs or preferences of the user 150. The sleeve portion 121 may be constructed of any material that is suitable for holding a container, provided that it is relatively flexible and of the desired thickness for the intended use. Nonetheless, the upper sleeve portion 124 may also be comprised of a mechanism that will secure the container and prevent the container from falling out of the holder 120 if the user 150 would bend over or fall. Preferably, the mechanism on the upper sleeve portion 124 would be elastic but may also be any other mechanism, such as a drawstring, that would be suitable to preventing a container from falling out of the holder 120.

[0033] FIGS. 2 and 4 illustrate a perspective front view of one potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed specification. The outer main pocket 1100 is shown in a fully open position 1113, and is comprised of a front wall 1101, a front wall opening 1102, a pair of side walls 1103, a point of attachment 1104, a front flap 1107, an inside panel 1109 and an outside panel 1111. The outer main pocket 1100 is preferably sewn to the body portion 110, but may also be fastened thereto in any manner that prohibits the outer main pocket 1100 from detaching from the body portion 110, while also providing for the placement of items, such as sanitation wipes, tissues or the like. Additionally, the outer main pocket 1100 is preferably comprised of the same material as the remaining portions of the body portion 110. Nonetheless, the outer main pocket 1100 is not so limited and may be comprised of any suitable material, provided that the material is both flexible and durable enough for its intended use.

[0034] Further, a second zippered or closed pocket may be located above and extend behind the outer main pocket 1100 thereby providing an area between the outer main pocket 1100 and the second pocket 130 for the placement of a cell phone or other device. The additional area to hold a cell phone or other device may comprise an enclosure to secure the device while providing access with little to no risk of cross contamination with other items. Preferably, the enclosing mechanism would be made of an elastic, but it may also be comprised of any other suitable material including, without limitation, hook/loop fasteners, snaps, buttons and adhesive closures such as patches or tapes or combinations thereof, that prevents the cell phone from exiting the pocket prematurely.

[0035] As best illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, an opening 1106 is preferably located between the front wall 1101 and the front flap 1107. For example, when the front flap 1107 is in a fully open position 1113, items such as sanitation wipes 190, tissues, etc. can be inserted into the opening 1106 in a manner such that the open portion of the item would face outward and be visible through the front wall opening 1102. In this manner, the top opening of a sanitary wipe package can be exposed without having to reorient the package in order to remove a wipe. The front wall opening 1102 is generally located in the middle of the front wall 1101, whereby items stored in the outer main pocket 1100, such as sanitation wipes 190, may protrude from the front wall opening 1102 to allow the user 150 to access each individual wipe in an easy, hands-free motion and without having to remove the entire package from the pocket 1100. As further illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4, the front wall opening 1102 may be a slit or other opening in a transparent or translucent panel.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the front flap 1107 has an inside panel 1109, an outside panel 1111 and a fastening mechanism 1108. The fastening mechanism 1108 is preferably a hook and loop fastener, but may be any other fastening device suitable for providing easy access to the front wall opening 1102, such as a snap, clasp, adhesive or the like. Preferably, the outer edge 1110 of the front flap 1107 is the same size and shape as the outer main pocket 1100, that is the periphery of the front flap is coextensive with the shape of the outer main pocket 1100. The outer edge 1110 may be of any design or pattern that allows the front flap 1107 to lay flat against the front wall when in a fully closed position. Additionally, when in a fully closed position, the fastening mechanism 1108 lines up with the point of attachment 1104 on the front wall 1101. The fastening mechanism 1108 will attach at the point of attachment 1104 such that the front flap 1107 will remain in a fully closed position, thereby protecting the item in the outer main pocket 1100 from contamination or other elements, until the user 150 opens the front flap 1107.

[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the holder 120 is located on the front side the body portion 110. As shown, the inner pocket 130 may be formed as one continuous piece of material. More specifically, the bottom portion of the inner pocket 130 does not extend in an outward direction as shown in FIG. 1. In this illustration, the inner pocket 130 would protrude inward while maintaining the same or similar volume for stowing items.

[0038] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the holder 120 is located on the right side of the outer main pocket 1100. FIG. 4 further illustrates the upper sleeve portion 124 of the holder 120 in a fixed nature, inasmuch as it does not contain elastic or another similar means to cinch the top opening 123. Further, FIG. 4 provides a clearer view of the fastening mechanism 1108. More specifically, the fastening mechanism 1108 is shown in the same size, proportion, and complementary material as the point of attachment 1104. If the front flap 1107 is in a fully closed position, the fastening mechanism 1108 will line up with the point of attachment 1104, thereby securing the front flap 1107 to the front wall 1101.

[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another potential embodiment of the consumer convenience and sanitary pack device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the rear or back surface of the device 100 is shown. The holder 120 may be attached or affixed to the back side of the body portion 110, and may be located on either side of the inner pocket 130. Further, FIG. 5 also illustrates the adjustability of both waist straps 142. More specifically, in addition to the buckle adjustment 143 described above, FIG. 5 illustrates the strap adjustment 144, which is located along the length of the waist strap 142. To adjust the waist strap 142 to a longer position, the strap adjustment 144 is moved or pushed closer to the body portion 110. The holder 120 may also be slidable or moveable onto the waist strap 142 to allow additional flexibility, wherein the holder 120 may also be removably attached by a hook and loop type fastener or by an adhesive. To shorten the waist strap 142, the strap adjustment 144 is moved away from the body portion 110 and closer to the mating buckle 141.

[0040] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the improved device 100 and its various components as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that other configurations of the device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0042] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.