GOLF BAG WITH PIVOTING HINGE FOR CARRY STRAP

Abstract

A pivoting hinge assembly for a golf bag has a rotable arm connected to a boss on the diver, and a cam mechanism that moves between a deployed and a stowed state. A carry strap has opposite ends attached to the rotable arm and the flat. When the cam engages the first detent, the carry strap is placed in a deployed state in which it protrudes away from the bag to facilitate grasping when the bag is placed on the ground. When the cam engages the second detent, the carry strap is placed in a stowed state wherein the carry strap nests with the bag, creating a compact footprint that facilitates stowing.

Claims

1. A golf bag, comprising; a base, a flat, a divider, and a pivoting hinge assembly; the pivoting hinge assembly comprises: a boss coupled to the divider comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, an arcuate surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, a boss aperture that extends from a boss first end to a boss second end, a first indent in the arcuate surface, and a second indent in the bottom surface; an arm rotatably coupled to the boss having a first bracket with a first hole, a second bracket with a second hole, and a cross support extending between the first bracket and the second bracket and comprising a cam, and a tongue coupled to the cross support; wherein the cam is configured to mechanically engage the first indent in a deployed state and the second indent in a stowed state; and a carry strap having a first end coupled to the tongue and a second end coupled to the flat, wherein the carry strap has a stowed state when the cam engages the first detent and a deployed state when the cam engages the second detent.

2. The golf bag of claim 1, further comprising a pin coupling the arm to the boss, wherein the tongue is coupled to the first end of the carry strap.

3. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the first indent is positioned on the boss such that when the cam engages the first indent, the tongue creates about a 90 degree angle with the flat.

4. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the second indent is positioned on the boss such that when the cam engages the second indent, the tongue is approximately parallel with the flat.

5. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the first end of the carry strap is coupled to the tongue by stitching.

6. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the boss is integrally formed with the divider.

7. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the tongue comprises a tongue length measured in a vertical direction from a tongue bottom end to a togue top end.

8. The golf bag of claim 7, wherein the tongue length is between 2.0 and 10.0 inches.

9. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the boss comprises a boss length defined as the distance from the boss first end to the boss second end.

10. The golf bag of claim 8, wherein the boss length is between 1.0 and 3.5 inches.

11. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the first indent comprises a first sloped contour including a first central region that forms a first concave depression configured to receive and form a first friction fit with the cam.

12. The golf bag of claim 11, wherein the second indent comprises a second sloped contour including a second central region that forms a second concave depression configured to receive and form a second friction fit with the cam.

13. The golf bag of claim 12, wherein the cam comprises a complimentary cylindrical mating geometry that aligns with the sloped contours of the first indent and the second indent.

14. The golf bag of claim 13, wherein the cam mechanically couples with each of the first and second indents.

15. The golf bag of claim 1, further comprising having a handle having a handle first end fixed to the flat and a handle second end slidably coupled to the flat.

16. The golf bag of claim 15, wherein the handle is aligned with the carry strap such that the carry strap in the stowed state, closely overlies the handle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a golf bag according to the present disclosure, with both a carry strap and a handle in deployed states.

[0006] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 1, with both the carry strap and the handle in a stowed state.

[0007] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a divider with a pivoting hinge assembly according to this disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the divider and pivoting hinge assembly of FIG. 3.

[0009] FIG. 5A is a side view of the divider and pivoting hinge assembly of FIG. 3, with a tongue in a deployed state.

[0010] FIG. 5B is a side view of the divider and pivoting hinge assembly of FIG. 3, with a tongue in a stowed state.

[0011] FIG. 6A is a cross sectional view of the divider and pivoting hinge assembly of FIG. 3, with a tongue in a deployed state.

[0012] FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of the divider and pivoting hinge assembly of FIG. 3, with a tongue in a stowed state.

[0013] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of an arm assembly of the pivoting hinge of FIG. 3.

[0014] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a boss provided on the divider of FIG. 3.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a top view of a carry strap of the golf bag of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a side view of the carry strap of FIG. 9.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a carry strap having a support board.

[0018] FIG. 12A is a side view of a handle of the golf bag of FIG. 1 in a deployed state.

[0019] FIG. 12B is a side view of the handle of FIG. 12A in a stowed state.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the handle of FIG. 12A in the deployed state.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a side view of the carry strap of FIG. 9 in a deployed state.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a side view, in cross-section, of a carry strap, according to another embodiment, in a deployed state.

[0023] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 1 with the carry strap in a stowed state.

[0024] FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the golf bag of FIG. 1 with the carry strap in a deployed state.

[0025] FIG. 17 is an enlarged side view of a second end of the carry strap in a deployed state.

[0026] The carry strap system described herein has many applications, as it can be applied to a variety of bags. Some applications of the carry strap system can include, but are not limited to, lightweight Sunday golf bags, single strap carry golf bags, stand golf bags, sports bags, backpacks, and travel bags.

Definitions

[0027] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

[0028] The terms first, second, and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms include, and have, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0029] The terms left, right, front, back, top, bottom, over, under, and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the invention described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0030] The terms couple, coupled, couples, coupling, and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements or signals, electrically, mechanically and/or otherwise.

[0031] Golf bag as used herein may mean a special type of storage bag for holding or storing golf clubs. A golf bag can be used to store golf clubs long term or move and hold golf clubs during play. Some golf bags also provide a means of storing other paraphernalia, such as tees, golf balls, a range finder, ball marker, divet repair tools, golf gloves, rain gear for club and golf bag, and miscellaneous articles that a golf player may want access to on the golf course. A golf bag comprises at least a flat, one or more stays, a base, and a divider, as defined below.

[0032] Flat as used herein may mean a tubular portion, outer shell, outer housing, or cover that attaches to and extends between the divider and the base of a golf bag. The flat can be formed from leather, synthetic leather, fabric or other suitable material. The flat may include, among other features, one or more pockets and at least one carrying handle. Some embodiments of the flat further comprise one or more shoulder carry straps.

[0033] Base as used herein may mean a component that is a foundation for the golf bag. The base can support the golf clubs to prevent them from falling out of a flat bottom end. The base can be in contact with the ground, providing a sturdy structure that provides shape to the flat.

[0034] Divider as used herein may mean a component that gives the top of the golf bag 100 a rigid shape and comprises apertures for receiving and dividing out (or sorting) the golf clubs that are inserted into the flat.

[0035] Stay(s) as used herein may mean one or more stiff members that provide rigidity to the flat. The one or more stays connect the base and the divider.

[0036] The term golf bag top, as used herein, refers to the portion of the golf bag that comprises a divider and a handle.

[0037] The term handle, as used herein, refers to a component that is sized to receive a hand and can be grasped and used to lift the golf bag.

[0038] The term carry strap, as used herein, refers to a component that is larger than a handle and is sized to receive a portion of a body of a user, such as a shoulder.

[0039] The terms stow or stowed, as used herein, refers to the act of folding, compacting, bending, compressing or otherwise converting a golf bag or a component of the golf bag to a stowed or collapsed state, ideal for shipping.

[0040] The terms deploy or deployed as used herein, refer to the act of placing the handle and/or carry strap in a configuration suitable for use.

DESCRIPTION

[0041] Described herein is a golf bag having a pivoting hinge assembly that holds a carry strap in two distinct positions: (1) a deployed state in which the carry strap protrudes away from the bag to make it easier to grab from the ground; and (2) a stowed state in which the carry strap nests with the contour of the bag flat to facilitate storage. The hinge assembly can be coupled to the divider, allowing the carry strap to counterbalance the combined weight of the bag and golf club and allowing users to easily pick the bag off the ground with a single hand. The hinge assembly further facilitates converting the strap between deployed and stowed states. Further, the carry strap can be completely detachable from the bag allowing the bag and carry strap to be assembled separately, making it easier, faster, and cheaper to manufacture.

[0042] The carry strap may include a slidable second end, opposite a first end that is coupled to the hinge assembly, that further flattens the carry strap when placed in the stowed state. Similarly, a handle, separate from the carry strap to provide another grip for carrying the bag, may include a slidable bottom end, opposite a top end, that nests with the contour of the golf bag, when in the stowed state. The carry strap can be manufactured and shipped separately from the hinge assembly and then affixed. This gives the bag the capability of being compacted for shipping and storage while also being capable of holding the carry strap in a deployed state to facilitate a more ergonomic means for setting down and picking up the golf bag in between golf shots.

[0043] The pivoting hinge assembly 157 is associated with the carry strap 140 of a golf bag 100. The golf bag 100 comprises a base 103, a divider 107 having one or more compartments, at least one stay, and a generally cylindrical flat 104 (also known as the outer shell or outer housing). The flat 104 is a fabric element that defines the exterior circumference of the golf bag 100, and comprises a flat top end 104a that is connected to the divider 107 and a flat bottom end 104b that is connected to the base 103. The flat 104 further defines a compartment for storing golf clubs. The golf bag 100 comprises a front side 101 and a rear side 102. In the case of a cart bag, the front side 101 comprises the carry strap and may face outwards when strapped to a golf cart, while the rear side 102 faces the cart. In the case of single strap carry bags, the rear side 102 of a carry bag typically comprises the deployable leg assembly, while the front side 101 of the golf bag comprises the carry strap. In the case of lightweight Sunday bags the front side 101 of the Sunday bag comprises the carry strap and the rear side 102 is the side placed on the ground, typically opposite the front side 101.

[0044] As previously mentioned, the carry strap 140 can be coupled to the divider 107 via the pivoting hinge assembly 157. The position of the carry strap 140 at the top most part of the golf bag 100 (i.e., coupled to the divider 107) allows the carry strap 140 to counterbalance the combined weight of the golf bag 100 and golf clubs. This, along with the rigidity of the carry strap 140 provided by the pivoting hinge assembly 157 and a support board 154 (discussed in depth below) in a deployed state, ensures users can easily and ergonomically pick the bag off the ground with a single hand. The divider 107 can define separate compartments configured to receive one or more golf clubs. The divider 107 is located near the flat top end 104a, and comprises an outer ring 108 and a mesh layer. The outer ring 108 can be formed from a plastic or plastic blend, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or other plastic or plastic-based blend. In some embodiments, the divider 107 can be made of glass-reinforced polypropylene or glass-filled nylon. In other embodiments, the divider 107 can be made of a metallic material. A top portion of the mesh layer wraps over the top of the outer ring 108 and is permanently affixed to the flat 104 on the exterior side of the golf bag 100. A bottom portion of the mesh layer is removably affixed to a flat inner surface via a hook and loop connection. The outer ring 108 is encapsulated between the flat 104 and the mesh layer. The flat 104 and the divider 107 are structural components of the golf bag 100, which are secured together with mating rivets.

[0045] The divider 107 can comprise a sidewall 110 having a divider top 111 opposite a divider bottom 112, and a divider first side 113 opposite a divider second side 114. In some embodiments, the divider top 111 and the divider bottom 112 are at least partially arcuate. In some embodiments, the divider first side 113 and the divider second side 114 are roughly linear. The sidewall 110 can comprise a cross sectional shape such as a rectangular shape, an oval shape, a square shape, an ovoid, a capsule or stadium shape, or any other suitable shape. The divider 107 can further comprise at least one divider support 119. The at least one divider support 119 can extend from the divider first side 113 and the divider second side 114. The at least one divider support 119 can be linearly shaped or curved.

[0046] The outer ring 108 defines a plurality of divider apertures 109, where each divider aperture may align with a corresponding flat aperture. The flat 104 is secured to the divider 107 via fasteners, such as mating rivets, where each mating rivet is received through a flat-divider aperture pair (hereafter referred to as the aperture).

[0047] In a stowed state, the carry strap 140 can nest against the contour of the flat 104. The carry strap first end 142 can be coupled to the divider 107 and the carry strap second end 144 can be coupled to the flat 104. As discussed above, the flat 104 is the outermost layer of the golf bag 100 and defines an interior space for the receiving club. The divider 107 is positioned within the flat 104. The golf bag 100 comprises a thickness measured between the flat exterior side to the inner surface of the mesh. The thickness can be between 3.0 mm to 6.5 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness is between 3.00 mm to 4.50 mm, 3.50 mm to 5.00 mm, 4.00 mm to 6.50 mm, 4.50 mm to 5.00 mm, or 5.00 mm to 6.50 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness is approximately 3.00 mm, 3.25 mm, 3.50 mm, 3.75 mm, 4.00 mm, 4.25 mm, 4.50 mm, 4.75 mm, 5.00 mm, 5.25 mm, 5.50 mm, 5.75 mm, 6.0 mm, 6.25, or 6.50 mm

[0048] The flat 104 can further define a flat length. The flat length can be measured from the base 103 to the bottom portion of the divider. In some embodiments, the flat length can range between 25 inches and 36 inches. In some embodiments, the flat length can range between 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or 36 inches. In some embodiments, the flat length can be more than 25 inches. In some embodiments, the flat length can be more than 30 inches.

[0049] Opposite ends of the carry strap 140 are coupled to the divider 107 via the pivoting hinge assembly 157 and the flat 104. The carry strap 140 is sized to receive a portion of the user's body, such as a shoulder, to facilitate carrying the golf bag 100. As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the carry strap 140 includes a carry strap first end 142 and a carry strap second end 144.

[0050] As previously mentioned, the carry strap 140 works in tandem with the pivoting hinge assembly 157 to hold the carry strap first end 142 approximately perpendicular to the golf bag 100. Specifically, the carry strap 140 can further comprise a support board 154, as shown in FIG. 9, that holds an additional portion of the carry strap 140 upright when in the deployed state, thereby mitigating bending by a user. The support board 154 provides rigidity to a portion of the carry strap 140, so that in the deployed state the carry strap 140 has an accurate shape, as best shown in FIG. 13. The support board 154 provides an increased rigidity to the carry strap 140 that causes the carry strap first end 142 to stand straight up, relative to the golf bag 100, in a deployed state. An intermediate region of the carry strap 140 protrudes away from the flat 104 to provide a section of the carry strap 140 that can be easily grasped. The remainder of the carry strap 140 can cascade down towards a first attachment point 143, such that the carry strap 140 forms an arching curve. The support board 154 ensures the carry strap 140 protrudes away from the flat 104 when the golf bag 100 is placed on the ground, facilitating a more ergonomic means for picking up the golf bag 100. Further, in a stowed state the support board 154, along with the pivoting hinge assembly 157, keeps a portion of the carry strap 140 nested close to the contour of the flat 104. This ensures easy storing of the golf bag 100 as the carry strap 140 will not get tangled or caught on exterior elements.

[0051] The support board 154 can comprise a board length measurement in a direction along the length for carry strap 140 when in the stowed state. The board length can be between 4.00 inches and 24.00 inches. The board length can be between 4.00 inches and 6.00 inches, 6.00 inches and 8.00 inches, 8.00 inches and 10.00 inches, 10.00 inches and 12.00 inches, 12.00 inches and 14.00 inches, 14.00 inches and 16.00 inches, 16.00 inches and 18.00 inches, 18.00 inches and 20.00 inches, 20.00 inches and 22.00 inches, or 22.00 inches and 24.00 inches.

[0052] The support board 154 can comprise a board width measurement in a direction perpendicular to the length for carry strap 140 when in the stowed state. The board width can be between 1.50 inches and 3.50 inches. The board width can be between 1.50 inches and 1.75 inches, between 1.75 inches and 2.00 inches, 2.00 inches and 2.25 inches, 2.25 inches and 2.50 inches, 2.50 inches and 2.75 inches, 2.75 inches and 3.00 inches, 3.00 inches and 3.25 inches, or 3.25 inches and 3.50 inches.

[0053] The support board 154 can comprise a thickness between 0.05 inches and 0.25 inches. The thickness can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches, 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches, 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, or 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches. The thickness is large enough to ensure the rigidity of the carry strap 140, specifically, proximate the carry strap first end 142, this ensures the carry strap 140 maintains that arcuate shape when in the deployed state. The dimensions of the support board (i.e., the length, the width, and the thickness) can be small enough that when the user carries the golf bag 100 on their shoulder via the carry strap 140, the support board 154 is not noticeable and causes little to no discomfort. Further, the dimensions of the support board 154 can be large enough to maintain durability and ensure the carry strap 140 maintains an arcuate shape when in the deployed state and remains nested to the contour of the flat 104 in the stowed state.

[0054] The handle 141 is operatively associated with the pivoting hinge assembly 157 and the carry strap 140 to improve the overall portability and weight distribution of the golf bag 100. The handle 141 can have a handle top end 146 and a handle bottom end 147, wherein both the handle top end 146 and the handle bottom end 147 can be received by the flat 104. The handle top end 146 can be directly secured to the flat 104 and the handle bottom end 147 can be indirectly coupled to the flat 104 via a second receiving loop 152, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B.

[0055] The handle 141 also moves in between the stowed or deployed state independently from the carry strap 140 and the pivoting hinge assembly 157. In a deployed state, the handle bottom end 174 can engage a second receiving loop 152, and comprises an arcuate shape. As shown in FIG. 1, the handle 141 allows users to easily pick up and maneuver the golf bag 100 in the deployed state. To transition to a stowed state, the handle bottom end 147 can slide out of engagement with the second receiving loop 152, by pulling the handle bottom end 156 in a direction away from the pivoting hinge assembly 157, which allows the handle 141 to lay flat along the body of the golf bag 100. As shown in FIG. 2, the handle 141 lays flat against the golf bag 100, making it an ideal configuration for shipping and storage. In such embodiments, the handle top end 146 can be a constrained end, and the handle bottom end 156 can be slidable or a free end. Additionally, the handle 141 may be aligned with the carry strap 140 such that the carry strap 140, when in the stowed position, closely overlies the handle 141/

[0056] In the deployed state, as shown in FIG. 1, the carry strap 140 and the handle 141 in conjunction with the pivoting hinge assembly 157 provide a means of easily picking up and carrying the golf bag 100. In the stowed state, as shown in FIG. 2, the golf bag 100 can be easily and compactly stowed, as the carry strap 140 and handle 141 in conjunction with the pivoting hinge assembly 157 lay flat against the golf bag 100.

[0057] The pivoting hinge assembly 157 can couple the divider 107 to the first end 142 of the carry strap 140 providing a connection point to the golf bag 100. The pivoting hinge assembly 157 facilitates converting the carry strap 140 between a stowed state and a deployed state. The pivoting hinge assembly 157 can further hold the carry strap 140 in the deployed state, by means of a friction fit, providing users with a more ergonomic means for setting down and picking up the golf bag 100. The pivoting hinge assembly 157 can comprise a boss 120 formed integrally or independent of the divider 107. The boss 120 extends outwards from the outer surface of the divider top 111, and includes a top surface 121 opposite a bottom surface 122, a boss first end 123, and a boss second end 124. The top surface 121 and bottom surface 122 can be connected via an arcuate surface. The boss first end 123 can be opposite the boss second end 124. The boss first end 123 can extend outward from the divider top 111, adjacent to the divider first side 113, and the boss second end 124 can extend outward from the divider top 111 adjacent to the divider second side 114.

[0058] The boss 120 allows for the active deployment of the pivoting hinge assembly. The boss 120 can have a boss length defined as the distance from the boss first end 123 to the boss second end 124 at a point farthest from the divider 107. The boss length can be between 1.0 inch and 3.5 inches. In some embodiments, the boss length can range between 1.0 and 1.5 inches, 1.5 to 2.0 inches, 2.0 to 2.5 inches, 2.5 to 3.0 inches, or between 3.0 to 3.5 inches. In preferred embodiments, the boss length is 2.0 inches. The boss length ensures a large enough buildup of material top to provide the desired durability without appearing bulky and displeasing to the user.

[0059] The boss 120 can further comprise first and second stops configured to hold the first end 142 of the carry strap 140 in the deployed and stowed states, respectively. More specifically, as best shown in FIGS. 5A-6B, the boss 120 includes a first indent 126a and a second indent 126b, recessed within an outer surface of the boss 120. More specifically, the bottom surface 122 of the boss 120 can comprise the second indent 126b and the arcuate surface of the boss 120 can comprise the first indent 126a. The first indent 126a and the second indent 126b can extend partially or fully along the length of the boss 120. In such embodiments, the first indent 126a and the second indent 126b can extend from the boss first end 123 to the boss second end 124 by 25%, 35%, 45%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85% or 95% of the entire boss length. In alternative embodiments, the first indent 126a and the second indent 126b can be discontinuous along the length of the boss 120. In some of these embodiments, the first indent 126a and the second indent 126b can extend from both the boss first end 123 and the boss second end 124 by 5%, 15%, 25%, 35%, or 45% of the entire boss length. The first indent 126a and the second indent 126b can be mirror images of each other and side to revied the arm 128.

[0060] The indents can be configured to create a complementary mating feature for the arm 128, such that the arm 128 and the indents form a friction fit. As shown in FIG. 6A, the first indent 126a can be positioned such that when it receives the arm 128, in the deployed state, the arm 128 creates about a 90-degree angle with the body of the golf bag 100. The arm 128 is approximately perpendicular to the body of the golf bag 100 in the deployed state. As shown in FIG. 6B, the second indent 126b can be positioned such that when it receives the arm 128, in the stowed state, the arm creates about a 180-degree angle with the body of the golf bag 100. The arm 128 is approximately parallel with the body of the golf bag 100 in the stowed state.

[0061] The first indent 126a and the second indent 126b each define a cross-sectional profile characterized by a sloped contours. These sloped contours include a central region that forms a first concave depression, and these depression creates a recessed area, configured to receive and form a friction fit with a cam 138 disposed on the arm 128. The gradual incline of the sloped contour on either side of the concave region facilitates guided engagement and disengagement of the arm 128 by allowing easy entry and exit of the cam 138 without abrupt resistance. As a result, the geometry of the first indent 126a and second indent 126b is structured to enable smooth and efficient movement of the arm 128 between the deployed state and the stowed state, thereby improving the mechanical reliability and ease of operation of the pivoting hinge assembly 157. In some embodiments, the first indent 126a comprises a first sloped contour, a first central region, a first concave depression and a first friction fit, while the second indent 126b comprises a second sloped contour, a second central region, a second concave depression, and a second friction fit.

[0062] Furthermore, the boss 120 comprises a boss aperture 125 configured to receive a pin 129 as a means of securing the arm 128 to the boss 120 and enabling smooth and efficient movement of the arm between the deployed state and the stowed state. In some embodiments, a boss aperture 125 can extend from the boss first end 123 to the boss second end 124. The boss aperture 125 can have a boss aperture diameter. The boss aperture diameter can be between 0.35 inches and 0.85 inches. In some embodiments, the boss aperture diameter can range between 0.35 and 0.45 inches 0.45 and 0.55 inches, 0.55 and 0.65 inches, 0.65 and 0.75 inches or 0.75 and 0.85 inches. In preferred embodiments, the boss aperture diameter can be 0.60 inches. The boss aperture diameter can be large enough to allow the pin 129 to be positioned within the boss aperture 125 but small enough to create a friction fit between the boss aperture 125 and the pin 129.

[0063] The pivoting hinge assembly 157 further comprises the arm 128 which received the carry strap 140 and further secures it to the pivoting hinge assembly 157. The arm 128 can comprise a tongue 133, a first bracket 134 positioned adjacent to the boss first end 123, and a second bracket 135 positioned adjacent to the boss second end 124. The first bracket 134 comprises a first aperture 136 and the second bracket 135 comprises a second aperture 137, both of which are configured to align with the boss aperture 125 and receive the pin 129. The arm 128 can further comprise a cross support 139 that extends from the first bracket 134 to the second bracket 135 along a bottom end 133b of the tongue 133.

[0064] The arm 128 further comprises a complementary cylindrical interface that aligns with the mating geometry of the first 126a and second 126b indent. The complementary cylindrical interference (referred herein as a cam 138) is a cylindrical protrusion extending along a base 153 of the cross support 139. The cam 138 can be integrally formed with the cross support 139 and projects outward from the base 153 of the cross support 139. In some embodiments, the cam 138 extends the entire base 153 of the cross support 139. In other embodiments, the cam 138 extends part of the base 153 of the cross support 139. The cam 138 is configured to be received by the concave depressions formed in the recessed areas of the first indent 126a and the second indent 126b. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, when the arm 128 is in a deployed configuration the cam 138 is housed within the first indent 126 and when the arm 128 is in a stowed configuration the cam 138 is housed within the second indent 126b.

[0065] The tongue 133 can comprise a tongue length measured in a vertical direction from the tongue bottom end 133b to the tongue top end 133a. The tongue length can range between 2.0 inches and 10.0 inches. In some embodiments, the tongue length can range between 2.0 to 3.0 inches, 3.0 to 4.0 inches, 4.0 to 5.0 inches, 5.0 to 6.0 inches, 6.0 to 7.0 inches, 7.0 to 8.0 inches, 8.0 to 9.0 inches, or between 9.0 and 10.0 inches. In preferred embodiments, the tongue length is 3.0 inches. The tongue 133 can provide an attachment point for the carry strap 140. The length of the tongue may be sufficient to provide an adequate attachment area for securing the carry strap 140. In some embodiments, the carry strap first end 142 is sewn onto the tongue 133.

[0066] As previously mentioned, the boss aperture 125 can be configured to receive the pin 129. The pin 129 acts as a connection means to further secure the arm 128 to the boss 120. Specifically, the pin 129 can be inserted through the first aperture 136 the first bracket 134, the second aperture 137 of the second bracket 135, and the boss aperture 125 simultaneously, securing the arm 128 to the boss 120 while still allowing the arm 128 to pivot about the boss 120. The pin 129 can comprise a tip end 131 and a butt end 130 configured to receive a plug 132. The butt end 130 can comprise a first snap-fit geometry configured to mate with a second snap-fit geometry on the plug 132, removably affixing the plug 132 to the butt end 130. The tip end 131 can comprise a lip, configured to prevent the pin 129 from sliding through the boss aperture 125 and through the first aperture 136 of the first bracket 134 and the second aperture 137 of the second bracket 135 completely.

[0067] The pin 129 holds the pivoting hinge assembly 157 together and binds the divider 107 with the carry strap 140. Specifically, the pin 129 can facilitate a pivotal connection between the divider 107 and the carry strap 140 via the boss 120 and the arm 128. The arm 128 can pivot and lock into multiple configurations when housing the cam 138 in either the first indent 126a or the second indent 126b. The geometry of the cam 138 is configured to be received by the concave depressions formed in the recessed areas of the first indent 126a and the second indent 126b, and retains its position by friction fit.

[0068] To maintain the deployed state of the carry strap 140, the cam 138 securely retains a friction fit within the first indent 126a, thereby ensuring that the arm 128 remains fixed in position. Simultaneously, this friction fit can be calibrated to provide sufficient resistance to hold the cam 138 in place under normal conditions, while also allowing the user to deliberately overcome the frictional force with minimal effort. This controlled disengagement enables smooth transition of the cam 138 from the first indent 126a to the second indent 126b, facilitating the pivotable movement of the carry strap 140 between the deployed and stowed positions. When the pivoting hinge assembly 157 is coupled to a divider 107 having a rigid construction, the divider 107 will resist movement in response to forces applied to the arm 128, thereby facilitating transitions between the stowed and deployed states.

[0069] The first bracket 134, the second bracket 135, and the cross support 139 provide support to the tongue 133, ensuring the arm 128 is strong enough to withstand the force needed to break the friction fit and transition the arm 128 from the stowed configuration to the deployed configuration. The first bracket 134 and second bracket 135 can be positioned adjacent to the boss first end 123 and the boss second end 124, respectively. The first aperture 136 and the second aperture 137 correspond with the size and shape of the boss aperture 125. The cross support 139 can extend between the first bracket 134 and the second bracket 135 and along the tongue bottom end 133b.

[0070] As previously mentioned, the carry strap 140 comprises a carry strap first end 142 and a carry strap second end 144. The carry strap first end 142 can be coupled with an arm 128 of the pivoting hinge assembly 157, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. The carry strap first end 142 can be coupled via mechanical means such as a snap system, Velcro, magnet, or other suitable means. In an alternative embodiment, the carry strap first end 142 can be coupled to the tongue 133 via sewing. In some embodiments, the carry strap second end 144 can be coupled to the flat 104 indirectly by means of a first receiving loop 148. In such embodiments, in a deployed state the carry strap second end 144 can engage a first receiving loop 148. In alternative embodiments, as seen in FIGS. 17-18, the carry strap second end 144 can be coupled to the flat 104 indirectly by means of a fastener 149 and a receiver 150. In such embodiments, the carry strap first end 142 can be a constrained end, and the carry strap second end 144 can be slidable, or a free end.

[0071] In the deployed state, golfers can carry the carry strap 140 on their shoulder or easily pick up the bag from the ground. As illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the carry strap 140 can be placed in a stowed configuration. The carry strap second end 144 can slide out of engagement with the first receiving loop 148, in a direction away from the pivoting hinge assembly 157, which allows the carry strap 140 to lay flat along the body of the golf bag 100. This configuration can be ideal for shipping and storage.

[0072] The carry strap 140 can be formed from a material such as polyester, nylon, cotton, or other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the carry strap 140 can comprise more than one material. In some embodiments, the carry strap 140 can comprise entirely the same material. The support board 154 can be formed from a material such as EVA foam, compression molded foam, PE board, celluloid structured material, or standard foam.

[0073] The boss 120 can be formed from a plastic or plastic blend, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or other plastic or plastic-based blend. In some embodiments, the boss 120 can be made up of glass-reinforced polypropylene or glass-filled nylon. In other embodiments, boss 120 can be made of a metallic material. In some embodiments, the boss 120 can be formed from the same material as the outer ring 108. In other embodiments, the boss 120 can be formed from a different material as the outer ring 108.

[0074] In some embodiments, different components of the pivoting hinge assembly 157, such as the boss 120, the arm 128, the pin 129, and the divider 107 comprise different materials. In other embodiments, different components of the pivoting hinge assembly 157, such as the boss 120, the arm 128, the pin 129, and the divider 107 can be formed from the same material, such as plastic or plastic blend, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, other plastic or plastic-based blend, glass-reinforced polypropylene, glass-filled nylon, or a metallic material.

[0075] Previous carry strap couplers result in undesirable crushing and creasing of the carry straps during shipment. To mitigate unwanted creasing, bags are shipped from the supplier with the carry straps unattached to the golf bag. Typically, additional manufacturing steps need to be taken such as sewing, folding, or attaching additional parts to allow the carry strap system to be able to attach to the golf bag. The carry strap system described herein can allow the carry straps to be easily pushed down and flattened to prevent creasing and crushing while also reducing any additional manufacturing steps to reassemble after shipping. The carry straps can be easily adjusted by the user and do not require additional assembly prior to shipping to the consumer, thereby reducing assembly time, improving appearance, and preventing flaws.

[0076] Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

[0077] Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents