Abstract
The disclosure provides a travel bag comprising a main body extending from a first end to a second end, and configured to assume an extended configuration for transportation of one or more elongated articles, and a compressed configuration for use other than transportation of the elongated article, wherein a distance between the first end and the second end is larger in the extended configuration than in the compressed configuration. The disclosure further relates to methods of storing garments and methods of displaying garments.
Claims
1. A travel bag comprising: a main body extending from a first end of said main body to a second end of said main body, and configured to assume an extended configuration for transportation of one or more elongated articles, and a compressed configuration for use other than transportation of the elongated article, a first lid extending from an inner open end of said first lid to an outer closed end of said first lid, a second lid extending from an inner open end of said second lid to an outer closed end of said second lid, defining an outer surface of said second lid and an inner surface of said second lid; wherein the distance between the first end of the main body and the second end of the main body is larger in the extended configuration than in the compressed configuration, wherein in the extended configuration, the main body first and second ends are respectively connected to the inner open ends of the first and second lids such that a substantially elongated storage housing is defined within the main body, and wherein in the compressed configuration, the second lid inner end is connected to the first lid inner end to define an alternative storage housing that is smaller than the elongated storage housing within the outer ends of the first and second lids.
2. The travel bag of claim 1, wherein the first and second lids are provided with corresponding connectors for establishing a detachable connection between each other.
3. The travel bag of claim 1 wherein one or more of the first and second lids comprises one or more electronic devices selected from a media player, a geolocation device, a digital screen, a light, a speaker, a plug, an electronic ink display, or a power source.
4. The travel bag of claim 2 wherein a distance between an open end and a closed end of one of the first and/or second lids is minimal such that they substantially define two opposite surfaces of said lid as a substantially flat element.
5. The travel bag of claim 2 wherein the first lid comprises a substantially flat nature and the second lid comprises a substantially flat nature such that in the extended configuration a substantially elongated storage housing can be defined and in the compressed configuration a substantially flat object can be defined.
6. The travel bag of claim 1 wherein the outer surface of one of the first or second lid, located at the outer closed end of said lids, is provided with an incense burner, a note pad, a mirror or combinations thereof.
7. The travel bag of claim 2 wherein one or more of the first and second lids or the main body comprises motivational, concentration, logistics or marketing elements such as quotes, texts, drawings, diagrams or textures, patterns, technical or installation descriptions, bar codes, QR codes, logistics codes, art representations, logos, colours or combinations thereof.
8. The travel bag of claim 2, wherein the first and/or the second lids are provided with a locking system configured to authorize or control its opening at the said detachable connection wherein the locking system comprises any of biometric locks, digital, electronic, magnetic, mechanical password locks or near-field communications.
9. The travel bag of claim 1, wherein one or more of the first and second lids comprise a further handle.
10. The travel bag of claim 1, wherein one or more of the first and second lids are provided with one or more supplementary storage compartments and wherein said storage compartments are permanently fixed to the lids.
11. The travel bag of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the main body is made of a flexible and foldable material. and wherein the main body is further provided with one or more rods describing a substantially helical shape to allow instant twist and fold of the main body.
12. The travel bag of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the main body is made of a rigid or semi-rigid material provided with a plurality of folding lines.
13. The travel bag of claim 1, wherein the main body comprises two or more bands made of an elastic material, and wherein in the extended configuration, said bands extend longitudinally from the first end to the second end of the main body and they are connected to the first and the second lids.
14. The travel bag of claim 2, wherein an outer surface of the main body is provided with a fastening system for attachment of a handle system.
15. The travel bag of claim 2, wherein one or more of the lids are provided with a fastening system for attachment of a handle system.
16. The travel bag of claim 1 further comprising a garment rolling guide attached to any of the lids or the main body.
17. The travel bag of claim 16, wherein the garment rolling guide is provided with a garment rolling sheet and a clipping system attached to said rolling sheet to fasten a garment to be rolled-up while it is being rolled-up.
18. The travel bag of claim 17, wherein the garment rolling sheet comprises means to automatically rolled-up.
19. A method of storing garments comprising providing a plurality of garments, wrapping each garment into a portable bag according to claims 1, and, accommodating the bags in a horizontal configuration in rows, one next to the other and a row above the other.
20. A method of displaying yoga-pilates mats comprising, providing a plurality of mats, wrapping each mat into a portable bag according to claims 1, and the method further comprises, hanging the bags from a bar of a display.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions.
[0055] FIG. 1a shows a travel bag according to an example;
[0056] FIG. 1b shows a travel bag according to another example;
[0057] FIG. 2 shows the travel bag of FIG. 1a in different configurations;
[0058] FIG. 3 shows a travel bag as that of FIG. 1b in different configurations;
[0059] FIG. 4 shows an example of the travel bag of FIG. 1b in different configurations;
[0060] FIGS. 5a-5d show four examples of the overall appearance of a travel bag in the extended configuration;
[0061] FIG. 6 shows a mat and the travel bag of FIG. 1a in different configurations;
[0062] FIG. 7 shows a mat and the travel bag of FIG. 4 in different configurations;
[0063] FIG. 8 shows a person carrying the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration;
[0064] FIG. 9 shows a person using the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the compressed configuration;
[0065] FIG. 10a shows an exploded view of an example of the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration;
[0066] FIG. 10b shows an exploded view of the travel bag of FIG. 1b;
[0067] FIGS. 11a-11f show further examples of the travel bags of FIGS. 1a and 1b in the extended configuration;
[0068] FIGS. 12a-12d show the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration being carried by a person in different ways;
[0069] FIGS. 13a-13b show the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the compressed configuration being carried by a person in different ways;
[0070] FIGS. 14a-14f show examples of locking systems for the lids of the bag of FIG. 1a in the compressed configuration;
[0071] FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration;
[0072] FIG. 16 shows examples of external supplementary storage compartments in the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration;
[0073] FIG. 17 shows examples of internal supplementary storage compartments in the lids of the travel bag of FIG. 1a;
[0074] FIG. 18 shows a hanger element in the lids of the travel bag of FIG. 1a;
[0075] FIG. 19 shows a rolling garment sheet according to an example;
[0076] FIG. 20 shows an example of a garment rolling guide;
[0077] FIG. 21 shows an example of a garment rolling guide being inserted into a travel bag;
[0078] FIG. 22 shows an example of travel bag in the extended and compressed configurations;
[0079] FIGS. 23a-23f show examples of travel bags of FIG. 1a in the extended and compressed configurations;
[0080] FIGS. 24a-24d show examples of the travel bag of FIG. 1b in the compressed configuration;
[0081] FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of a travel bag according to an example;
[0082] FIG. 26 shows a mat and the travel bag of FIG. 25 in different configurations;
[0083] FIG. 27 shows a traditional storage of mats;
[0084] FIG. 28 shows a traditional display for selling garments;
[0085] FIG. 29 shows examples of locking systems for travel bags in the extended configuration;
[0086] FIG. 30 shows an example of a plurality of travel bags in the extended configuration being displayed on a clothing rack;
[0087] FIG. 31 shows a flow chart of an example of a method of displaying, selling or storing yoga mats being placed in a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described; and
[0088] FIG. 32 shows a flow chart of an example of a method of displaying, selling or storing garments being placed in a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described.
[0089] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the invention or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0090] Throughout the following figures the same reference numbers will be used for matching parts.
[0091] FIG. 1a shows a travel bag 100 according to an example. The travel bag 100 of this example comprises a main body 130 that may extend from a first end 1301 to a second end 1302 to define an extended configuration. The main body 130 may further be configured to adopt a compressed configuration (shown in FIG. 2). The travel bag 100 may further comprise a first lid 110 that may extend from an inner open end 1101 to an outer closed end 1102 and a second lid 120 that may extend from an inner open end 1201 to an outer closed end 1202.
[0092] The first end 1301 of the main body 130 may be connectable to the inner open end 1101 of the first lid 110. The second end 1302 of the main body 130 may be connectable to the inner open 1201 of the second lid 120. The first 110 and second 120 lids may be provided with connectors 170 in order to be connectable to the main body 130 to define the extended configuration. In some cases, the connectors 170 may further be able to connect the first 110 and second 120 lids, when the main body 130 adopts the compressed configuration.
[0093] In some examples, the connectors 170 may be selected from the group consisting of zippers, male-female connectors, magnets, pressure fitting, friction fitting, snap fit connectors, clip connectors, latches, buckle connectors, electronic connectors, rubber connectors, threads, clamps or combinations thereof.
[0094] The travel bag 110 may further comprise a handle system 150 that may be connectable to either an outer surface of the main body first 1301 and second 1302 ends or to the first 110 and second 120 lids. See dashed lines of FIG. 1a. In the example of FIG. 1a the handle system 150 is a strap. In alternative examples, the handle system may comprise more than one straps, one or more cords, ribbons, strings, belts, chains, ropes or bands.
[0095] An outer surface of the main body 130 may further be provided with drawings 140, texts, diagrams, textures, patterns, bar codes or logos. Alternatively, it may be coloured. In more alternatives, drawings and/or texts and/or colouring may be provided in the lids or combinations thereof.
[0096] The outer closed end 1102 of the first lid 110 may comprise a substantially flat surface that may be provided with e.g. an incense burner 116 and an area for ashes 114. In alternatives, a sculpture, a mirror, a board or combinations thereof may be foreseen.
[0097] FIG. 1b shows another example of travel bag 100 that may be formed in a single piece and comprises a main body 130 that may extend from a first end 110 to a second end 120. The main body 130 may be made of a substantially rigid or semi-rigid material and may comprise a plurality of folding lines 1300 that may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A of the main body 130. In the example of FIG. 1b, the main body 130 may be folded at a portion of the folding lines 1300 to define an extended configuration in which an elongated storage space for receiving a substantially elongated article is defined. In the example of FIG. 1b, only folding lines 1310-1316 are folded to define the extended configuration including an elongated storage space within the main body 130.
[0098] In the figure on the left, a yoga mat 200 is shown that is ready to be housed inside the elongated storage space. In the figure of the right, the mat 200 is shown to be housed inside the storage space.
[0099] In the example of FIG. 1b, the main body 130 is further provided with holes 135 that may be arranged in pairs. The holes may be configured to receive a back-pack handle system 150. In this example, four pairs of holes 135 may be provided. Two pairs may be arranged at opposite sides (along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) of the main body and at the same first height H1 along the longitudinal axis A-A of the main body 130. The other two pairs of holes 135 may be arranged at opposite sides of the main body and at the same second height H2 along the longitudinal axis A-A of the main body. The first height H1 may be closer to the first end 110 and the second height H2 may be closer to the second end 120 when the main body is in the extended configuration. In an arrangement of the main body in which the first end is a top end and the second end is a bottom end, the first height H1 is higher than the second height H2. In the example of FIG. 1b, the back-pack handle system 150 comprises cords or ropes. In alternative examples, bands may be foreseen. The cords, ropes or bands may be used for a different use when the bag is not being used for transportation. In examples, jumping ropes, fitness bands, sculpting resistance bands, resistance bands or cords may be foreseen. The cords may further serve to laterally secure the mat 200 in the storage housing as shown in the figure of the right.
[0100] The folding of lines 1313-1315 may further define a further handle 172 at the first end 110 of the main body 130 in the extended configuration. The handle 172 may be form as a cut out on the rigid or semi-rigid material. In other examples, other folding lines may be folded and the further handle may not be present. See FIG. 4 or 10b.
[0101] In the example of FIG. 1b, a further bending line may fold a portion of the main body having a substantially oval shaped cut-out 165. The cut out may serve to secure the mat 200 when it is placed inside the storage housing and the fold portion provides stabilization to the main body. See figure on the right.
[0102] In the example of FIG. 1b, the main body 130 may further comprise a pair of foldable handles 1501 that may be configured to project out of its outer surface when the main body 130 is in the compressed configuration. See FIG. 3 (numeric reference 164).
[0103] In further examples, other number of folding lines may be folded as shown in the examples of FIG. 3 or 4 to define e.g. the compressed configuration. In the example of FIG. 3, the main body 130 may be made of e.g. cardboard. The figure of the right shows substantially no folded lines, the bag is not being formed yet and may function as a towel or mat. The figure of the left shows a compressed configuration of the main body 130 in which all folding lines may be folded. A pair of foldable handles 164 may further be provided configured to project out of the main body 130 outer surface when the main body 130 is in the compressed configuration.
[0104] FIG. 2 shows the example of FIG. 1a in three different configurations. The figure on the right shows the main body 130 in the extended configuration. The lids 110 and 120 may be respectively connected to both ends of the main body 130. In this example, a stiffening member 134 may further be provided at both ends of the main body 130 to aid connecting the ends with the lids 110 and 120. A zipper 136 may be provided at the open ends of the lids 110, 120. A matching zipper may be provided at the stiffening member or at the ends of the main body when no stiffening member is provided. The zipper 136 connecting the first lid 110 with one end of the main body 130 is also shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15. In alternative examples, other mechanical closing systems may be foreseen. The stiffening member 134 is also shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15.
[0105] In this example, the strap 150 may be in the form of a bandolier and may be connected to the second lid 120 through a mechanical coupling such as a button/eyelet coupling 156. In alternative examples, other mechanical couplings may be foreseen such as clips, hook-and-loop strip, tie strings, Velcro or similar.
[0106] Further in this example, the main body 130 may be made of a flexible and foldable material and may further provided with one rod 138 describing a substantially helical shape around the flexible and foldable material to allow instant twist and fold of the main body 130. In this example, the natural relaxed state of the rods may be close to their shape in the extended configuration. To obtain the compressed configuration, the body is compresses, and the various turns of the helical rod are pushed closer together.
[0107] In the example of FIG. 2, the figure in the middle shows an intermediate configuration in which the main body is partly compressed. In this case, a storage housing (not shown) may be defined within the main body and the lids. The storage housing having a volume that is lower than that of the elongated housing of the extended configuration and that is bigger than that defined within the two lids when the main body is in the compressed configuration. A further mechanical coupling may be provided to lock the bag in this intermediate configuration.
[0108] The figure on the left shows that the two lids 110, 120 may be connected to each other, to define the compressed configuration. In this example, the compressed main body (not shown) may be housed within a storage housing that may be defined by the lids 110 and 120 connected to each other.
[0109] The example of FIG. 4 differs from the example of FIG. 1b in that the further handle has been removed. Furthermore, the cords have been replaced by a jumping rope 166. The final shape is also slightly changed.
[0110] In this example, the figure of the bottom shows the extended configuration and the figures of the top the compressed configuration. In the figure of the bottom, the first end 110 of the main body 130 may be made by merely folding lines 1311-1313. And an outer surface of the main body may incorporate texts or diagrams 142.
[0111] In the figure of the top, the main body 130 may be in the compressed configuration, acting as a secondary bag for smaller articles, and the jumping rope 166 may be separated from the bag (and used). A portion of the outer surface of the main body may further be used as a notepad 144 or as a digital screen. A further band or strap 173 may be provided to aid maintain together the main body in the compressed configuration. And the substantially oval shaped cut-out 165 becomes a handle.
[0112] FIGS. 5a-5d show four examples of overall appearances that a travel bag in the extended configuration may adopt. FIG. 5a shows a prismatic configuration having a square cross-section. FIG. 5b shows a prismatic configuration with a cross-section having a pentagonal shape. FIG. 5c shows a bag with a cross-section having a hexagonal shape. And FIG. 5d shows a bag with a cross-section having a circular shape. Other polygonal or rounded cross-sections may also be foreseen. The overall appearance of the extended configuration may thus be considered substantially tubular.
[0113] FIG. 6 shows the travel bag of FIGS. 1a and 2 with a mat 200. The sequences of figures from left to right show the steps for rolling the mat and introducing it inside the bag to get ready for transport. The first step starts with the bag in the compressed configuration. In this configuration an incense stick 1161 may be placed in the incense burner as explained in connection with FIG. 1a. The first step may comprise rolling up the mat 200. See arrows F1. Once the mat is rolled up, the second step may comprise starting expansion of the main body. See arrows F2. When the main body 130 is in the extended configuration, the third step may comprise opening the first lid 110 by unzipping zipper 136 and introduce the folded mat 200 inside the elongated storage housing defined in the extended configuration (explained in connection with FIG. 1a). See arrows F3. The last step may comprise closing the first lid 110.
[0114] FIG. 7 shows the travel bag of FIG. 4 with a mat 200. The sequences of figures from left to right show the steps for rolling up the mat and introducing it inside the bag to get ready for transport. The first step starts with the bag in the compressed configuration and the strap/rope or cords in a released configuration, i.e. being usable e.g. as a jumping rope as explained in connection with FIG. 1b. This compressed configuration may allow storage or transportation of other items such as shoes 4000, cell phones 4001 or other items that might require storage while practicing yoga or related activities. The first step may comprise rolling up the mat 200 as explained in connection with FIG. 6. Once the mat is rolled up, the second step may comprise starting expansion of the main body. To do this the strap 173 needs to be unfasten and the rope may be provided through the eyelets. When the main body 130 is in the extended configuration, the third step may comprise introducing the folded mat 200 inside the elongated storage housing defined in the extended configuration (explained in connection with FIG. 1b). When doing this, care should be taken to introduce the mat within the oval cut-out 165 as explained in connection with FIG. 1b, which may also act as a handle in the compressed configuration.
[0115] FIG. 8 shows a person carrying the bag of FIG. 1a, 2 or 6 in the extended configuration being used to transport an elongated element, e.g. a yoga mat. In this example, the handle system 150 may be a belt 154 that may comprise rings 169 to adjust its length.
[0116] FIG. 9 shows a person using the bag of FIG. 8. The person may actually be using the mat 200 for practising yoga while the bag may be in the compressed configuration in which the incense burner 116 may be used. Furthermore small items such as keys, mobile phone, or purse may be housed inside the storage space defined by the two lids 110 and 120 being fasten to each other defining the compressed configuration.
[0117] FIG. 10a shows an exploded view of the travel bag of FIG. 1a, 2 and 6 in the extended configuration. In this exploded view the connector 170 of the first lid 110 may comprise a stiffening member 134 with a zipper 136 and the main body first end may also comprise a stiffening member 134 with a matching zipper 136. The strap 150 may be in the form of a belt 154 and may be connected to the main body through a mechanical detachable coupling such as a button/eyelet coupling 156. In alternative examples, other mechanical couplings may be foreseen such as clips, hook-and-loop strip, tie strings, Velcro or similar. The belt 154 may be made of textile, leather or similar. The belt may be connected to the main body with a fixed stitching 152 or similar. The stitching 152 is also shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15. Having one end fixed and the other detachable ensures that the belt remains fixed to the main body but does not hinder compressing it into the small storage housing in the compressed configuration. In alternative examples, other ways of attaching the belt or strap to the main body may be foreseen, e.g. the strap may comprise two fixed stitching at both ends of the main body or two mechanical joints buttoned type or clip may be foreseen. In these cases, the strap may be released from the main body and may have a further use, e.g. jumping rope, resistance bands. Alternatively, two slings or ropes may be provided such that the bag can be converted into a back-pack.
[0118] FIG. 10b shows an exploded view of the travel bag of FIGS. 4 and 7 in the extended configuration. The strap 173 for holding together the bag in the compressed configuration is identified and is attached to the main body (it has no use in the extended configuration). A further tongue 171 is shown at the second end 120 which aids completing the folding and maintaining its folded condition in the extended configuration
[0119] FIG. 11a shows the example of FIG. 1b (figure on the left) in the extended configuration in which the pair of foldable handles has been removed.
[0120] FIGS. 11b-11f show further examples of the travel bag of FIG. 1a in the extended configuration.
[0121] FIG. 11b shows an example in which the main body (of the travel bag) as such is left out. This way, the travel bag may comprise only a first lid 110 and a second lid 120. This example may be used for transportation of rigid or semi-rigid elongated articles such as the yoga mat in a rolled condition. The first end 110 that may extend from an inner open end to a closed end and the second end 120 may also extend from an inner open end to a closed end. The rolled mat may be inserted into the inner open ends of the first 110 and second 120 lids.
[0122] The lids 110 and 120 may be provided with fastening connectors 170 able to connect each other when the mat is removed to define a compressed configuration.
[0123] In this example, the inner open ends of the first and second lids may have a geometry that may be defined as a function of the substantially rigid or semi-rigid elongated article to be transported, e.g. the rolled mat, such that the rolled mat can be snap fitted inside the inner open ends. In alternative examples, the inner open ends of the first and second lids may be provided with mechanical-based fastening elements able to fix the rolled mat (or any other elongated article) to be transported to the first and second lid.
[0124] A handle or strap 174 may further connect the first lid 110 to the second lid 120 to provide a handling system and more rigidity or stability to the bag in the extended configuration. A handle system 150 may be provided in e.g. the first lid 110 (or in the second lid or in both lids).
[0125] FIG. 11c and FIG. 25 or 26 show an example in which the main body may be made of a rigid or semi-rigid foldable material such as cardboard, plastic, rubber or alike. In these examples, the main body may comprise a plurality of folding lines that may comprise a combination of triangles forming a faceted-like surface so as to fold like an accordion or origami when the main body is in the compressed configuration. The main body may be connectable to a first and second lid substantially as explained in connection with FIG. 1a, 4, 6 or 10a. Alternatively, the folding lines may be a series of parallel lines that may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body so as to fold like an accordion when the main body is in the compressed configuration.
[0126] The example of FIGS. 25 and 26 differ from that of FIG. 11c in that the main body and the lids may be made from a single piece. A further difference is the shape of the lids. In the example of FIG. 25 the lids are hexagonal whereas in the example of FIG. 11c the lids are circular. Other shapes may also be foreseen. In FIG. 25 the figure of the left shows the cardboard, plastic, rubber or alike in a cut condition with the folding lines shown in sketch or interrupted lines. In this example, the main body may have a substantially rectangular shape and the folding lines may comprise parallel lines 230 in the direction of the longer sides of the rectangular shape and parallel lines 231 in the direction of the shorter sides of the rectangular shape thus defining a plurality of small squares. The folding lines may further comprise parallel diagonal lines 232 traversing vertices of the squares. The figure of the right shows some folding lines in a folded condition to form the lids 110, 120 and lines 230 folded to form part of the main body. Glue or other adhesive may be used to put together the side ends of the main body and lines in a folded condition forming the lids. Instead of glue, other components may be added to connect the side ends of the main body with elements such as zips, male-female connectors, magnets, pressure fitting, friction fitting, snap fit connectors, clip connectors, latches, buckle connectors, electronic connectors, biometric or other password locks of any kind, rubber connectors, threads, clamps or other mechanical-based connectors, e.g. Velcro.
[0127] FIG. 26 shows the travel bag of FIGS. 11c and 25 with a mat 200. The sequences of figures from left to right show the steps for folding the mat and introducing it inside the bag to get ready for transport. The first step starts with the bag in the compressed configuration and may comprise rolling up the mat 200. Once the mat is rolled up, the second step may comprise opening the first lid 110 and starting expansion of the main body by unfolding lines 231 and 232. When the main body 130 is an intermediate configuration between compressed configuration and the extended configuration, the third step may comprise introducing the folded mat 200 inside the elongated storage housing defined in the intermediate configuration. The last step may comprise completing extension of the main body and closing back the first lid 110.
[0128] FIG. 11d shows the example of FIG. 1a or FIG. 6 in the extended configuration in which the handle system has been removed. In this example, the rod 138 describing a substantially helical shape provided around the flexible and foldable material may be provided in combination with joint means, e.g. a channel 139 formed by sewing a portion of a flexible material to provide housing for the rod 138. The rod 138 inserted in the channel 139 is also shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15. The channel 139 may be continuous along the rod 138 or only locally provided along stretches.
[0129] The example of FIG. 11e differs from that of FIG. 11d in that two rods 138 may be provided describing substantially helical shapes in opposite directions so as to create crossings 1381 between the two rods 138. In alternative examples, instead of rods a cable or other rigid and bendable material may be used.
[0130] FIG. 11f shows an example of travel bag in which the main body may comprise two stripes or bands 137 made of an elastic material. Such elastic material may be capable of returning to its original length and shape due to its nature or may be deformed and extended as a result of gravity, due to the load of the lower lid 120. The bands may extend longitudinally to connect the first 110 and the second 120 lids to define the extended configuration. In alternative examples, other number of bands may be foreseen.
[0131] In all cases, an outer surface of the lids may comprise texts, diagrams, drawings, patterns, bar codes, QR codes or any type of logistic and reference code, logos, colours or textures.
[0132] FIGS. 12a-12d show different ways of carrying a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described in the extended configuration by a person.
[0133] In the example of FIG. 12a a length of the belt 154 may be adjusted such that the bag may be carried as a bandolier.
[0134] In the example of FIGS. 12b and 12d the belt may be adjusted (e.g. through the rings 169) as a waist strap 167 and may be provided with an extension 1671 to add stability. Alternatively, a strap or grip 168 to the leg may further be provided.
[0135] In the example of FIG. 12c the belt may be replaced by two straps or ropes 166 such that the bag can be carried as a back-pack.
[0136] All these examples allow a hands free transport of the bag.
[0137] In all cases, the handle system may be folded inside the lids in the compressed configuration or may be fully removable while in such a compressed configuration.
[0138] FIGS. 13a-13b show different ways of carrying examples of a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described in the compressed configuration. In these examples, the lids 110 and/or 120 may be provided with fastening elements such that the belt (or strap) 154 used to carry the bag in the extended configuration can be adjusted to an outer surface of one or more of the lids 110 and 120. Mechanical joints such as clips, Velcro o buttons (156) may be foreseen. The compressed configuration can thus become a traditional hanging bag as shown in FIG. 13a). Alternatively, the belt or strap may be replaced by handles 164 to transform the travel bag into a grab hand bag as shown FIG. 13b.
[0139] In all these cases, only shown in FIG. 13b, one or more of the lids may comprise one or more external pockets 118. The pocket 118 is also shown in FIG. 15 although in the example of FIG. 15 the pocket may be located inside the lid.
[0140] In the example of FIG. 16 one or more supplemental storage compartments 180 may be provided in any one of the main body 130 or the first 110 and second 120 lids, or combinations thereof. These compartments 180 may be suitable for carrying personal objects of the user such as mobile phones, purse or keys. Other uses may also be foreseen.
[0141] FIG. 17 shows a top view of any of the lids 110 (or 120) that may be provided with an internal pocket 118 with its own closure system 119. In more examples, other number of internal or external pockets may be foreseen. In yet more examples, some of these pockets may be removably arranged, i.e. they may be stuck to an outer surface by e.g. Velcro. In other examples, the pocket may be permanently arranged.
[0142] FIGS. 14a-14f show examples of locking systems for the lids of a bag of FIG. 1a, 4, 6 or similar in the compressed configuration, i.e. locking systems between the first 110 and second 120 lids. As a general rule, the locking system may be visible or not depending on its own design. Examples of visible locking systems are provided in FIGS. 14a-14d and examples of invisible locking systems are provided in FIGS. 14e and 14f. Other alternatives may also be foreseen.
[0143] In the example of FIGS. 14a and 14b, the locking system may comprise a button/eyelet coupling 156 in combination with one or more bands 171. The bands 171 may be sewn 152 to the lids or they may be separate. In the example of FIG. 14c the button coupling 156 may be tied with a cord 176 or similar. In the example of FIG. 14d the locking system may comprise an elastic band 173 that may be arranged around the two lids 110 and 120 being brought together. In this example, the elastic band 173 may have a further use (in combination with the transport of a mat). It may be used as a resistance band for the practise of yoga or pilates. The button coupling 156 is also shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15.
[0144] In the example of FIG. 14e, the locking system may comprise a matching thread at each open end of the first 110 and second 120 lids. And, in the example of FIG. 14f, the locking system may comprise a pair of magnets 174 at each open end of the first 110 and second 120 lids.
[0145] FIG. 18 shows an example of a hanger element that may be provided in any of the lids 110 and/or 120 of a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described. In an example, the hanger element may be a hook 124 that may be hidden inside the outer closed end of any of the lids 110 or 120. To hide the hook 124 a rotatory notch/cover 122 (or notch with cover) may also be provided. FIG. 18 further shows a sequence from left to right showing how the hook 124 may be extracted. The sequence starts with a closed end of the second lid 120. The notch/cover 122 is rotated (see arrow N1) so as to discover the hook 124. In the next step, the hook 124 is pivoted upwards (see arrow N2) so as to become unfolded.
[0146] FIG. 19 shows a rolling garment sheet 191 that may be used to fold a garment. The sheet 191 may be rectangular. In more examples, the sheet may have a shape equal or similar to that of the garment to be wrapped, e.g. jacket, shirt, suit, dress. The rolling sheet may be made of a flexible or continuously bendable (in at least a primary rolling direction) material. Alternatively, it may be provided with a plurality of folding lines arranged perpendicularly to the primary rolling direction. In the example of FIG. 19, a method of storing a suit 193 inside a bag substantially as hereinbefore may further be explained. The sheet 191 may be arranged horizontally, the suit 193 may be provided on top of the sheet 191 and the arrangement sheet-suit (191+193) may be rolled-up to define a tubular body that may be fitted inside a bag (shown in broken lines) substantially as hereinbefore described. This packing system can reduce wrinkling of the garment. This packing and transportation of the garment may be of special interest e.g. in case of travelling with jackets by plane or at in hot climates where the garment can be carried in the travel bag before a meeting and then wear it upon arrival and juts during the event, ensuring or at least enhancing the possibility that there are no wrinkles: At the same time, saving space as the compressed configuration of the travel bag may be used as an elegant small accessory substantially as hereinbefore explained.
[0147] FIG. 20 shows a further example in which the rolling sheet 191 may be combined with a rolling guide. The rolling guide may be provided with a clipping system to fasten a garment to be rolled-up while it is being rolled-up. The clipping system may comprise two bars or rods 197 and 16 that are separable (see broken lines) from each other thereby fixing the suit 193 to be wrapped. In more examples, the two bars may be replaced by one or more clips or two fixed bars at one end. The provision of two bars enhances the ironing effect of the rolled condition in a garment.
[0148] In some cases, as shown in FIG. 20, the rolling sheet 191 may further comprise fastening members 195 to firmly secure the suit 193 while it is being rolled-up.
[0149] In some cases the garment rolling sheet is flexible or continuously bendable in at least a primary rolling direction or is provided with a plurality of folding lines arranged perpendicularly to the primary rolling direction. In other examples the rolling sheet is rigid or semi-rigid so as to be self-held in a tubular form once it is rolled-up. In further examples the garment rolling sheet is rectangular or has a shape substantially equal to that of a garment to be wrapped, while in other examples the rolling sheet further comprises fastening members to firmly secure a garment while allow rolling of the garment.
[0150] In more examples, a cover may be provided on top of the garment to further protect it while being transported. In more examples, the sheet may comprise one or more cut-outs through which the garment to be rolled-up can be at least partially inserted. And in yet more examples, a motor may be provided to automate the rolling of the sheet, similarly to rolling window shades or projection screens.
[0151] The rolling guide may be made of bamboo, paper, metal paper, cork, carbon fiber, nylon fiberglass, polyester, polymers, leather, graphite, cotton or other fabrics, foam, cardboard, plastics, rubber, thermos-formable materials, elastomers, shape-memory alloys, aramid fibers, aluminium and other light metals, recycled materials, biodegradable materials, jute, composites or aerogels.
[0152] FIG. 21 shows an example of the garment rolling sheet with the suit being inserted (see arrow B) into a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described. In this example, one of the lids may be provided with a hanger element 199 that may be fixed or removable. Velcro, clips, hook-and-loop string or any other closing system may be foreseen for ensure locking of the packed suit.
[0153] The example of FIG. 22 differs from that of FIG. 1a, 4 or 6 in that the lids 110 and 120 may be compacted, i.e. a distance between an open end and a closed end of each of the lids 110 and 120 may be minimal, or they may even be virtually coincident. In these examples, an outer surface of the closed end of the lids 110 and/or 120 may comprise elements such as a mirror, note pad, digital screen or an area to expose inspirational, marketing or logistic features such as texts, diagrams, textures, drawings, patterns, bar codes, QR codes, logos or colours.
[0154] FIGS. 23a-23f show examples of travel bags in the extended and compressed configurations showing different alternative uses of the compressed configuration. These examples differ in the way the lids are built or fitted to allow any of this or other use. In the example of FIG. 23a at least one of the lids may be provided with an incense burner 116 as explained in connection with FIG. 1a. In the example of FIG. 23b, at least one of the lids may be provided with a speaker 302. Alternatively, one more electronic devices selected from a further speaker, a media player, a geolocation device, a digital screen, a light, a plug or an electronic ink display may be provided. In the example of FIG. 23b, at least one of the lids may be provided with a portable battery 304 for charging electronic devices. In more examples, other power sources selected from photovoltaic chargers, piezoelectric or kinetic chargers or any other portable energy device or power source able to charge a user electronic device may be foreseen.
[0155] In the example of FIG. 23d at least one of the lids may be provided with a sculpture 306. In the example of FIG. 23e at least one of the lids may be made rigid enough to be used as a seat 308. In the example of FIG. 23f at least one of the lids may be made of foam or cork to provide a yoga-pilates block usually used in the practise of these activities.
[0156] FIGS. 24a-24d show examples of the travel bag of FIG. 4 or 7 in the compressed configuration. In the example of FIG. 24a, a portion of the outer surface of the main body may be used as a notepad 314 in a similar manner as explained in connection with FIG. 4. This configuration may also function as a bag for articles that are smaller than the elongated article to be carried in the extended configuration. In the example of FIG. 24b this portion of the outer surface may be used to show a text or drawings. FIGS. 24c and 24d show alternative uses of the ropes or cords or bands use to close the bag in FIGS. 1b, 4 or 7. In FIG. 24c a jumping rope 318 is shown and in FIG. 24d a resistance band 319.
[0157] In some examples, the main body may be made of transparent or translucent materials. FIG. 29 shows examples of bags having a main body that is at least partially made of a transparent or translucent material. In these examples, the portion of the main body made of a transparent material is denoted with numeric reference 133 whereas the portion that is made of an opaque material is denoted with numeric reference 132. A locking system 320 may further be provided. The locking system 320 may be configured to authorize or control the opening of the bag.
[0158] In some examples, the locking system may comprise any of biometric locks, digital, electronic, magnetic, mechanical password locks or near-field communications.
[0159] In these examples, the bag may further solve a problem of displaying garments in reduced size stores as the garments may be displayed in a rolled condition hung from a relatively small display. FIG. 30 shows an example of a plurality of bags containing, e.g. a suit, being displayed in a hung condition from a clothing rack. A mannequin may be provided on top of the clothing rack wearing the garment that represents the style of the rest of the garments packed and displayed in the rack. This way the actual cloth, its texture and design can be exhibited without the need to take out the garments from the bags.
[0160] FIGS. 27 and 28 display traditional set-ups for selling yoga-mats and garments respectively.
[0161] FIG. 31 shows a flow chart of an example of a method of displaying or storing yoga mats being placed in a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described. The process starts at step 201 with a travel bag according to any of above examples and a yoga-pilates mat to be rolled up and store within the bag. The yoga mat is laid flat. At step 202 the yoga mat is rolled up. At step 203, the rolled yoga mat is inserted into the bag (see e.g. FIG. 6, 7 or 26). At this point, examples of the storing process may comprise e.g. accommodating the bags in a horizontal configuration in rows, one next to the other and a row above the other and examples of a displaying process may comprise hanging the bags from a display rack.
[0162] FIG. 32 shows a flow chart of an example of a method of displaying garments being placed in a travel bag substantially as hereinbefore described. The process starts with a plurality of travel bags according to any of above examples and a plurality of garments, e.g. suit, shirts, dresses, jackets, to be rolled-up and stored within the bag. The first step 301 involves laying a garment rolling sheet substantially as hereinbefore described in an extended condition, i.e. substantially flat (see FIG. 20). At step 302 a piece of garment is laid flat on the rolling sheet. After this, two optional steps may follow, either alone or in combination. In a first optional step 303, the piece of clothing is secured to the garment sheet to prevent the clothing from slipping off or moving while rolling up. And/or in a second optional step 304, the rolling sheet is secured to a rolling guide to ensure the clothing is properly rolled-up (see FIG. 20). At step 305 independently from steps 303 and/or 304, the piece of clothing and garment rolling sheet are rolled-up to form a tight roll to prevent wrinkling and other deformations of the clothing. At step 306, the rolled garment and sheet are inserted into the bag (see e.g. FIG. 21). At this point, examples of the displaying process may comprise hanging the bags from a display rack. The disclosed displaying method involves that each piece of clothing is previously stored within the bag and then the plurality of bags housing the pieces of clothing is hung from the display rack.
[0163] In some examples, as explained before, the bags with the mats or the pieces of clothing may be locked or sealed.
[0164] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims. Further, it is to be understood that the invention(s) described herein is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the preceding description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of including, comprising, or having and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
