STRAP FOR RETAINING EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG ON EQUIPMENT LIFTING LUGS

Abstract

An equipment transport bag assembly is operable to handle equipment having a lifting element. The bag system includes a bag assembly and a retention assembly. The bag assembly includes a bag defining an interior configured to at least in part receive the equipment therein when the bag is in a receiving position. The bag assembly further includes a lifting strap unit secured relative to the bag and defining an element-receiving opening. The lifting element is at least in part received by the element-receiving opening when the bag is in the receiving position and the lifting strap unit is in an engaged configuration. The retention assembly releasably retains the lifting strap unit in the engaged configuration.

Claims

1. An equipment transport bag system operable to handle equipment having a lifting element, said bag system comprising: a bag assembly including a bag defining an interior configured to at least in part receive the equipment therein when the bag is in a receiving position, and a lifting strap unit secured relative to the bag and defining an element-receiving opening, said lifting element being at least in part received by said element-receiving opening when the bag is in the receiving position and the lifting strap unit is in an engaged configuration; and a retention assembly releasably retaining the lifting strap unit in the engaged configuration.

2. The equipment transport bag system of claim 1, said retention assembly being configured to selectively apply tension to the lifting strap unit so as to restrict shifting of the lifting strap unit relative to the lifting element.

3. The equipment transport bag system of claim 1, said bag assembly including a pair of said lifting strap units, each of said lifting strap units defining an element-receiving opening, each of said element-receiving openings configured to receive a corresponding lifting element of the equipment, said retention assembly configured to releasably retain each of the lifting strap units in the engaged configuration.

4. The equipment transport bag system of claim 3, said retention assembly presenting a pair of spaced apart ends defining a length therebetween, said length being adjustable.

5. The equipment transport bag system of claim 4, each of said ends configured to engage a respective one of the lifting strap units.

6. The equipment transport bag system of claim 4, said retention assembly comprising an elongated retention strap assembly.

7. The equipment transport bag system of claim 6, said retention strap assembly including a retention strap and an adjustment element engaging the retention strap to facilitate adjustment of the length.

8. The equipment transport bag system of claim 7, said adjustment element including a component selected from the group consisting of a ring, a plurality of teeth, hook-and-loop fasteners, and an elastic section.

9. The equipment transport bag system of claim 1, said lifting strap unit including a lifting element section defining the element-receiving opening, and an external operation section located at least in part outside the bag interior and operably coupled to the lifting element section, said lifting strap unit configured to support the bag and the equipment, when a lifting force is applied to the external operation section and the bag is in the receiving position and the lifting strap unit is in the engaged configuration, said retention assembly releasably retaining the lifting strap unit in the engaged configuration when the lifting forced is removed.

10. The equipment transport bag system of claim 9, said external operation section, said lifting element section, and said bag being operably coupled to one another such that the equipment is supported by the lifting strap unit within the bag interior and the bag does not function as the primary load-bearing component during lifting and handling of the equipment.

11. The equipment transport bag system of claim 9, said lifting element section including an element-section securement portion and an element-section receiving portion, said element-section receiving portion extending from the element-section securement portion into the bag interior and defining the element-receiving opening, said external operation section including an external-operation securement portion and an external lifting portion, said external lifting portion extending from the external-operation securement portion away from the bag interior, said lifting element section being operably connected to the external operation section such that the lifting-section securement portion is secured in an orientation generally opposite that of the external-operation securement portion, and the element-section receiving portion extends generally away from the external lifting portion.

12. The equipment transport bag assembly of claim 11, said element-section securement portion and said external-operation securement portion being secured to one another by stitching.

13. The equipment transport bag assembly of claim 11, a portion of the bag being sandwiched between said element-section securement portion and said external-operation securement portion, said election-section securement portion, said external-operation securement portion, and said portion of the bag being operably secured to one another.

14. The equipment transport bag system of claim 1, said retention assembly comprising an elongated retention strap assembly, said retention strap assembly including a retention strap forming a retention loop, said retention loop defining a retention opening, at least a portion of said lifting strap unit extending through said retention opening.

15. The equipment transport bag system of claim 14, said retention loop being selectively openable and closeable to facilitate ease of placement of the retention loop relative to the portion of the lifting strap unit.

16. The equipment transport bag system of claim 15, said retention loop being selectively secured in a closed position by use of a component selected from the group consisting of hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, and hooks.

17. The equipment transport bag system of claim 14, said lifting strap unit including a lifting element section defining the element-receiving opening, and an external operation section located at least in part outside the bag interior and operably coupled to the lifting element section, said portion of the lifting strap unit comprising the lifting element section.

18. The equipment transport bag system of claim 1, said retention assembly comprising an elongated retention strap assembly, said retention strap assembly including a retention strap having an end, said end being secured directly to at least one of said bag and said lifting strap unit.

19. A method of transporting equipment having a lifting element, said method comprising the steps of: (a) positioning at least a part of the equipment in an interior defined by a bag; (b) engaging the lifting element with a lifting strap unit attached relative to the bag; (c) lifting the bag and the equipment by applying a lifting force to the lifting strap unit; and (d) retaining the lifting strap unit on the lifting element when the lifting force is removed.

20. The method of claim 19, step (d) including the step of positioning a retention strap assembly relative to the lifting element and the lifting strap unit such that the retention strap assembly at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting strap unit relative to the lifting element.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of: (e) disengaging the lifting strap unit from a lifting mechanism.

22. The method of claim 21, step (e) being performed after the step of positioning the retention strap assembly relative to the lifting element and lifting strap unit.

23. The method of claim 20, step (d) further including the step of using the retention strap assembly to apply tension to the lifting strap unit, thereby restricting shifting of the lifting strap unit relative to the lifting element.

24. The method of claim 20, said equipment having a pair of said lifting elements, a pair of said lifting strap units being attached relative to the bag, step (b) including the step of engaging each of the lifting elements with a corresponding one of the lifting strap units, step (d) including the step of positioning the retention strap assembly relative to each of the lifting elements and each of the lifting strap units such that the retention strap assembly at least substantially restricts shifting of each of the lifting strap units relative to the corresponding one of the lifting elements.

25. The method of claim 24, step (d) including the step of using the retention strap assembly to apply tension to the lifting strap units.

26. The method of claim 24, step (d) including the step of tightening the retention strap assembly between the pair of lifting strap units.

27. The method of claim 20, step (d) including the step of positioning a retention loop defined by the retention strap assembly around the lifting strap unit such that at least a portion of the lifting strap unit extends through the retention loop.

28. The method of claim 27, step (c) including the step of opening and then closing the retention loop to facilitate positioning of the retention loop around the lifting strap unit.

29. The method of claim 20, step (b) including the step of positioning the lifting element at least in part in an element-receiving opening defined by the lifting strap unit, step (d) including the step of positioning the retention strap assembly relative to the lifting element and the lifting element section such that the retention strap assembly at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting element section relative to the lifting element.

30. The method of claim 29, further including the step of: (e) after the step of positioning the retention strap assembly relative to the lifting element and the lifting element section, disengaging a external operation section of the lifting strap unit from a lifting mechanism.

31. The method of claim 19, step (b) including the step of engaging the lifting element with a lifting element section of the lifting strap unit, step (d) including the step of positioning the retention strap assembly relative to the lifting element and the lifting element section such that the retention strap assembly at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting element section relative to the lifting element.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0010] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a retention assembly in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a partially sectioned top perspective view of a transformer received in an equipment transport bag system in accordance with the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the retention assembly is installed on a lifting strap unit and includes a D-ring adjustment system;

[0013] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the transformer and bag system of FIG. 2, particularly illustrating engagement of the retention assembly with the lifting strap unit;

[0014] FIG. 4a is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the retention assembly of FIGS. 1-3, particularly illustrating the threading mechanism of the D-ring adjustment system;

[0015] FIG. 4b is a perspective view of the retention assembly portion of FIG. 4a, illustrating the completed threading of the D-ring adjustment system;

[0016] FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of a transformer and bag assembly in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention, particularly illustrating a retention assembly having a selectively openable and closeable loop;

[0017] FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of a transformer and bag assembly in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention, particularly illustrating a retention assembly secured directly to a securement portion of a lifting strap unit;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a partially sectioned front perspective view of a transformer received in an equipment transport bag assembly in accordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein a retention assembly is installed on a lifting strap unit and includes a hook-and-loop adjustment system;

[0019] FIG. 8a is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a retention assembly in accordance with a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention, particularly illustrating a toothed buckle adjustment system thereof in a fully threaded state;

[0020] FIG. 8b is a perspective view of the retention assembly portion of FIG. 8a, particularly illustrating the threading mechanism of the toothed buckle adjustment system;

[0021] FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of a portion of a transformer and bag assembly in accordance with a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention, particularly illustrating a lifting strap assembly including flat (i.e., non-looped) strap portions having terminal rings;

[0022] FIG. 10 is an enlarged, partially sectioned perspective view of a portion of a transformer and bag assembly in accordance with a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention, particularly illustrating a retention assembly secured directly to a bag sidewall and a lifting element extending through an opening cooperatively defined by the bag sidewall and a lifting strap assembly; and

[0023] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a transformer received in an equipment transport bag system in accordance with an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein a retention assembly is installed on a lifting strap unit having arced, handle-like lifting portions.

[0024] The drawing figures do not limit the present invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. While the drawings do not necessarily provide exact dimensions or tolerances for the illustrated structures or components, the drawings are to scale with respect to the relationships between the components of the structures illustrated in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms. While the drawings illustrate, and the specification describes, certain preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that such disclosure is by way of example only. There is no intent to limit the principles of the present invention to the particular disclosed embodiments.

[0026] Furthermore, unless specified or made clear, the directional references made herein with regard to the present invention and/or associated components (e.g., top, bottom, upper, lower, inner, outer, etc.) are used solely for the sake of convenience and should be understood only in relation to each other. For instance, a component might in practice be oriented such that faces referred to as top and bottom are sideways, angled, inverted, etc. relative to the chosen frame of reference.

Overview

[0027] Turning now to FIGS. 1-4b, an equipment transport bag system 10 and an electrical transformer 12 are illustrated in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. The bag system 10 includes an equipment transport bag assembly 14 and a retention assembly 16. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the equipment transport bag system 10 is operable to handle equipment 12 having a lifting element 18, including but not limited to equipment such as the illustrated transformer 12. That is, configuration for use with other equipment types (i.e., with non-transformers, including but not limited to switchgear, breakers, and reclosers) is permissible.

[0028] The transformer 12 includes a main body 20 and a pair of diametrically opposed, side-mounted lifting elements or lugs 18 extending general radially outwardly from the main body 20. It is noted that such a lug configuration is a standard feature of most conventional transformers, such that the illustrated transformer 12 might be replaced by any of numerous alternate transformers known in the art without affecting the operability of the inventive bag system 10. That is, regardless of other features of a given transformer (e.g., bushings, circuit breakers, ground straps, ground connectors, hanger brackets, oil fill plugs, fuses, tap changers, nameplates, and so on), the presence of diametrically opposed, radially outwardly extending lugs of lifting elements similar to those of the illustrated transformer 12 is likely. Alternatively stated, similar lugs may be understood to be a universal or near-universal feature of relevant equipment.

[0029] It is permissible according to some aspects of the present invention, however, for adaptations to the bag assembly to be made to accommodate storage and/or transport of transformers or other equipment having non-standard lug or lifting element configurations. For instance, the transformer or other equipment might include three or more equally spaced apart lugs, multiple axial heights of lugs, irregularly spaced lugs, variously sized lugs, and so on.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the bag assembly 14 broadly includes a bag 22 and an equipment-handling assembly 24. The bag 22 defines an interior 26 configured to at least in part receive the transformer 12 (or alternative equipment) therein when the bag 22 is in a receiving position. The bag 22 includes a base or bottom wall 28 and a sidewall 30 extending upwardly from the base 28.

[0031] The sidewall 30 preferably presents a terminal upper margin 32a of the bag 22 and, in turn, of the sidewall 30 itself, although it is permissible according to some aspects of the present invention for an upper margin of the bag to be otherwise defined. A lower margin 32b of the sidewall 30 is defined adjacent the base 28.

[0032] The base 28 and the sidewall 30 preferably cooperatively at least substantially define the aforementioned interior 26.

[0033] The base 28 is preferably circular in shape, with the sidewall 30 in turn being at least substantially cylindrical. Various bag shapes fall within the scope of some aspects of the present invention, however.

[0034] The bag 22 is preferably fabricated from a heavy-duty synthetic resin material to be puncture-resistant and at least substantially leak-proof (with regard to liquids that may be spilled from a transformer, for instance). Use of alternative materials falls within the scope of some aspects of the present invention, however, provided such materials are able to contain any spillage of liquid from the transformer 12 (or other structure) therein. It is also noted that, although construction from a single material is most preferred, the bag could alternatively include sections formed from different materials.

[0035] The material of at least a portion the bag 22 is also preferably sufficiently flexible to facilitate manipulation of the bag 22 as it is drawn up around the transformer 12. In a preferred method of use, for instance, the bag assembly 14 is initially provided in a fully collapsed or contracted state (not shown), in which the sidewall 30 is collapsed, contracted, or folded on itself so as to present a comparatively small axial height. This cases the placement of the transformer 12 over the sidewall 30 and onto the base 28, as the collapsed sidewall 30 provides minimal obstruction to movements of the transformer 12 and any associated lifting equipment, operators, etc. The bag 22 is then gradually expanded via upward force applied to the sidewall 30 (e.g., through the equipment-handling assembly 24), which as a result extends circumferentially around (i.e., outside) the main body 20 and, eventually, the lugs 18 of the transformer 12.

[0036] The bag 22 is understood to be in an intermediate state when in a partially expanded, partially contracted state.

[0037] When the sidewall 30 has been urged upward to its fullest extent, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the bag 22 is in its fully expanded configuration; and it is preferred that the entirety of the main body 20 of the transformer 12 is disposed within the bag interior 26. (In the illustrated embodiment, the interior 26 extends axially upwardly to an upper boundary associated with the aforementioned upper margin 32a of the sidewall 30 and bag 22.)

[0038] In some instances, full extension of the bag 22 may not be necessary to facilitate disposition of the entirety of the main body 20 within the bag interior. As can be inferred from FIGS. 2 and 3, for instance, the main body 20 would still be disposed in its entirety within the bag interior 26 even if the sidewall 30 were to slump or collapse somewhat to a shorter height.

[0039] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, the bag 22 is preferably additionally capable of containing any extensions of the transformer 12 from the main body 20, including but not limited to the illustrated lifting elements or lugs 18. For instance, the transformer 12 could include one or more additional bushings, circuit breakers, ground straps, ground connectors, hanger brackets, oil fill plugs, fuses, tap changers, nameplates, and so on extending outwardly from or relative to the main body but still received within the bag 22. However, in alternate embodiments still falling under the scope of some aspects of the present invention, one or more of such extensions could instead project out of the bag interior.

[0040] In a more general sense, the bag 22 may be described as having a continuum of receiving positions in which the interior 26 is configured to at least in part receive the equipment 12 therein. Such receiving positions will be understood to potentially correspond to one or more intermediate configuration(s) and to the fully expanded configuration of the bag 22.

[0041] As noted previously, the bag assembly 14 further preferably includes the equipment-handling assembly 24. The equipment-handling assembly 24 preferably includes a pair of opposed, load-bearing lifting strap units 34 and a pair of opposed, non-load-bearing lifting strap units 36. The load-bearing lifting strap units 34 and the non-load-bearing lifting strap units 36 are preferably alternately arranged with one another and are most preferably spaced apart by right angles, although other arrangements fall within the scope of some aspects of the present invention. More or fewer strap units of both types may also be provided, and/or non-load-bearing lifting strap units may be omitted entirely.

[0042] It is noted that, although the non-load-bearing lifting strap units 36 may inherently be subject to at least some degree of loading or force when the bag assembly 14 is in use (including but not limited to weight associated with the bag 22 itself), the bag assembly 14 is designed such that any loads carried by or applied to the non-load-bearing lifting strap units 36 are very low in comparison to those associated with the load-bearing lifting strap units 34.

[0043] As will be discussed in greater detail below, the retention assembly 16 releasably retains at least one of the load-bearing lifting strap units 34 in an engaged configuration.

Load-Bearing Strap Units

[0044] In a broad sense, each load-bearing lifting strap unit 34 preferably includes a first strap section or lifting element section 38 with an element-section receiving portion or connection portion 40 designed to receive or otherwise engage a corresponding lifting element 18, such as a lifting lug 18. The strap units 34 also each include a second strap section or external operation section 42 with an external-operation lifting portion 44 designed for engagement by a lifting mechanism (not shown).

[0045] As will be discussed in greater detail below, the lifting strap units 34 are configured to support the bag 22 and the equipment 12 when a lifting force is applied to the external operation sections 42, the bag 22 is in one of the receiving positions, and the lifting strap units 34 are in an engaged configuration, in which at least a portion of each lifting strap unit 34 engages one or more lifting elements 18.

[0046] It is particularly noted that, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the external operation section 42, the lifting element section 38, and the bag 22 are operably coupled to one another for each lifting strap unit 34 such that the equipment 12 is supported by the lifting strap units 34 within the bag interior 26 and the bag 22 does not function as the primary load-bearing component during lifting and handling of the equipment 12.

Lifting Element Section

[0047] In a broad sense, the connection portion 40 of the lifting element section 38 extends downwardly and into the bag 22 (i.e., into the bag interior 26 defined at least in part by the sidewall 30) for engagement with the lifting lug 18, whereas the lifting portion 44 of the external operation section 42 is designed to extend upward from the bag 22 when engaged by a lifting mechanism or other external operating equipment or force.

[0048] Alternatively stated, the connection portion 40 is disposed inboard of and spaced from the sidewall 30 (i.e., inside the bag 22, in the bag interior 26) for engagement with a corresponding lifting lug 18 when equipment 12 is in the bag 22.

[0049] In greater detail, each lifting element section 38 preferably includes an element-section securement portion 46 and the aforementioned receiving or connection portion 40. The element-section receiving portion or connection portion 40 extends from the element-section securement portion 46 into the bag interior 26.

[0050] In greater detail still, each lifting element section 38 is preferably formed primarily or at least substantially from an elongated first strap 48 having end portions 50 and 52 terminating at a location adjacent the upper margin 32a of the sidewall 30 of the bag 22. (That is, the end portions 50 and 52 preferably do not extend past the upper margin 32a, instead terminating adjacent the upper margin 32a.)

[0051] Alternatively described, the securement portion 46 of the lifting element section 38 extends upwardly to a location adjacent the upper margin 32a (by what may be referred to as a securement portion distance).

[0052] More particularly, the end portions 50 and 52 of the first strap 48 preferably overlie one another and are secured along an inner surface 30a of the sidewall 30 to form or at least substantially form the securement portion 46.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the securement portion 46 is secured to the sidewall 30 by stitching 54 (shown schematically in simplified form in FIG. 3). However, alternative securement means are permissible, including but not limited to adhesives, heat welding, rivets, staples, and so on.

[0054] Each lifting element section 38 preferably defines a respective element-receiving opening 56. More particularly, each connection portion 40 preferably includes a loop 58 extending from the securement portion 46 and into the interior 26. Each loop 58 defines a corresponding one of the element-receiving openings 56, with each of such element-receiving openings 56 configured to receive at least a portion of the corresponding lifting element or lug 18 therein when the bag 22 is in a receiving position and the lifting strap unit 34 is in an engaged configuration.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the loop 58 of the connection portion 40 extends away from and is devoid of direct connection to or, alternatively stated, is free of any direct connection with, the sidewall 30. That is, the loop 58 is fixed relative to the sidewall 30 via the securement portion 46 but is not itself stitched, adhered, heat-welded, or otherwise directly connected thereto. Stated in yet another way, the loop 58 is only indirectly fixed to the sidewall 30. Such freedom from direct connection to the sidewall 30 is such that the loop 58 can be readily manipulated as needed to facilitate engagement of the connection portion 40 with the corresponding lifting lug 18.

[0056] Stated in yet another way, the loop 58 is continuous with the securement portion 46, which as noted above is fixed relative to the sidewall 30, and is thus also restricted in motion relative to the sidewall 30. However, the loop 58 is otherwise freely movable when not engaging a lug 18.

External Operation Section

[0057] The external operation section 42, which may also be referred to herein as a lifting operation section 42, preferably includes the aforementioned external-operation lifting portion 44 (or lifting operation securement portion 44) and an external-operation securement portion 60 (or lifting operation securement portion 60). Each external-operation lifting portion 44 is preferably located at least in part outside the bag interior 26 when the bag 22 is in an expanded configuration. More particularly, the external-operation lifting portion 44 preferably extends from the external-operation securement portion 60 away from the bag interior 26. Furthermore, the lifting element section 38 is preferably operably connected to the external operation section 42 such that the element-section securement portion 46 is secured in an orientation generally opposite that of the external-operation securement portion 60, and the element-section receiving portion or connection portion 40 extends generally away from the external-operation lifting portion 44.

[0058] Although each external-operation lifting portion 44 is preferably located at least in part outside the bag interior 26 when the bag 22 is in an expanded configuration, it is particularly noted that use of external in reference to the external operation section 42 and any component thereof is not intended to limit the section and/or components thereof to positioning directionally outside of or external to the bag 22. Rather, external in the sense of external-operation lifting portion and similar uses is intended to indicate the portion's configuration for interaction with equipment or operators that are not part of the bag system itself. For instance, the external-operation lifting portion 44 in a preferred methodology is configured for engagement with an external lifting unit that is not part of the bag system 10 itself but performs an external operation to engage the bag system 10.

[0059] In a broad sense, the external operation sections 42 are each preferably identical in general structure to the lifting element sections 38 but oriented oppositely or at least substantially oppositely. Sizing may vary, as well. Unless otherwise specified, however, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the lifting element sections 38 should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the external operation sections 42, as well.

[0060] The external operation sections 42 are preferably formed primarily or at least substantially from an elongated second strap 62 having a first end portion 64 and a second end portion (not shown). The first end portion 64 preferably terminates at a location below and spaced from the upper margin 32a of the sidewall 30. The second end portion is similarly disposed at an opposed position on the bag assembly 14 and is associated with the other of the external operation sections 42. This is in keeping with a preferred U-shaped, bight- and leg-based form of the external operation sections 42 and second strap 62.

[0061] More particularly, the first end portion 64 extends continuously with a first leg 66. The second end portion extends continuously with a second leg (also not shown). A bight (not shown) extends below the bottom wall 28 of the bag 22 to connect the first leg 66 and the second leg.

[0062] The second strap 62 is preferably discrete from (i.e., distinct from) the first strap 48. However, it is permissible according to some embodiments of the present invention for the first and second operation sections of each strap unit to be cooperatively or unitarily formed by a single strap or by more than two (2) straps.

[0063] As noted previously, the external operation section 42 preferably includes the previously introduced securement portion 60 and the previously introduced lifting portion 44 (analogous to the securement portion 46 and the connection portion 40, respectively, of the lifting element section 38).

[0064] The securement portion 60 preferably extends downwardly from the upper margin 32a of the sidewall 30 to a location below the upper margin 32a (by what may be referred to as a securement portion distance).

[0065] More particularly, the first end portion 64 of the second strap 62 and an upper portion 68 of the corresponding leg 66 preferably overlie one another and are secured along an outer surface 30b of the sidewall 30 to form or at least substantially form the respective securement portion 60. Although not illustrated, the second end portion of the second strap 62 and an upper portion of the corresponding leg preferably likewise overlie one another and are secured along an outer surface 30c of the sidewall 30 to form or at least substantially form the respective securement portion 60.

[0066] It is particularly noted that the upper portion 68 of the leg 66 (or the upper portion of the not-shown second leg) may additionally or alternatively understood to define an end or transition point of sorts of the second strap 62, albeit one that does not terminate discretely but instead extends continuously with the remainder of the leg 66 (or second leg). That is, because only the upper portions of the legs, and not the legs in their entirety, are part of the respective external operation sections 42 of the strap units 34, a theoretical demarcation or break may be understood to exist between the upper portion 68 and the remainder of the leg 66 and the non-illustrated upper portion and remainder of the second leg.

[0067] It is also particularly noted that embodiments are permissible in which the second strap terminates completely rather than forming a leg. That is, a pair of second straps could be provided, with each including two terminal end portions that form the respective securement portion. Such a configuration could be similar to that illustrated for the first straps 48.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the securement portions 60 are secured to the sidewall 30 by stitching 54 (shown schematically in simplified form), as also noted above with regard to the securement portions 46. However, alternative securement means are permissible, including but not limited to adhesives, heat welding, rivets, staples, and so on.

[0069] Preferably, the element-section securement portion 46 and the external-operation securement portion 60 are further secured to one another by stitching, with a portion 22a of the bag 22 being sandwiched between said portions 46 and 60. That is, the portions 46 and 60 and the bag 22 are all operably secured to one another, most preferably via stitching 54 through the bag portion 22a.

[0070] The lifting portion 44 preferably includes a lifting loop 70 extending from the securement portion 60 and away from the interior 26.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the lifting loop 70 of each lifting portion 44 extends away from and is devoid of direct connection to or, alternatively stated, is free of any direct connection with the sidewall 30. That is, similarly to the connection loops 58 of the connection portions 40, the lifting loops 70 are secured relative to the sidewall 30 via the respective securement portions 60 but are not themselves stitched, adhered, heat-welded, or otherwise directly connected thereto.

[0072] In a broad sense, for lifting of the equipment 12 and the bag assembly 14, the equipment 12 is placed in the bag interior 26 when the bag 22 is in a receiving position, the connection loops 58 of the connection portions 40 are placed around the lugs 18 of the equipment 12 (i.e., the lugs 18 extend through the element-receiving openings 56), and external lifting equipment (not shown) engages the lifting loops 70 of the lifting portions 44. This method will be described in greater detail below.

Retention Assembly

[0073] As noted previously, the retention assembly 16 is configured to releasably retain at least one and preferably both of the load-bearing lifting strap units 34 in the engaged configuration. For the sake of conciseness and clarity, the retention assembly functionality will be described hereinafter primarily in relation to a single one of the lifting strap units 34. However, it should be understood that most preferably the retention assembly will additionally interact at least substantially similarly with the other of the lifting strap units 34.

[0074] In a general sense, releasable retention of the lifting strap unit 34 in the engaged configuration is preferably achieved through selective application of tension to the lifting strap unit 34 by the retention assembly 16 so as to restrict shifting of the lifting strap unit 34 relative to the corresponding lifting element 18.

[0075] More particularly, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention and as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4b, the retention assembly 16 preferably presents a pair of spaced apart ends 72a and 72b defining a retention assembly length therebetween, with each of the ends 72a and 72b configured to engage a respective one of the lifting strap units 34. The retention assembly length is adjustable, such that tension on the lifting strap units 34 may be initially applied, increased, or decreased via adjustment thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, for instance, shortening the retention assembly length between the ends 72a and 72b results in application of or an increase in tension applied to the lifting strap units 34.

[0076] As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art and as will be discussed in greater detail below, various retention assembly configurations are capable of achieving the above-described functionality. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, for instance, the retention assembly 16 comprises an elongated retention strap assembly 74 including a retention strap 76 and an adjustment system or element 78 that engages the retention strap 76 and facilitates adjustment of the length of the retention assembly as a whole.

Adjustment Element

[0077] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, the adjustment element 78 includes a pair of rings 78a and 78b through which a portion 80 of the retention strap 76 is woven. More particularly, the retention strap 76 includes first and second retention strap sections 82 and 84. The first retention strap section 82 includes the aforementioned outer end 72a and an inner end 86a, whereas the second retention strap section 84 includes the aforementioned outer end 72b and an inner end 86b.

[0078] The first inner end 86a is simply defined by a termination of the strap section 82. However, the second inner end 86b forms a loop 88 through which the rings 78a and 78b extend. That is, the loop 88 secures the rings 78a and 78b to the second retention strap section 84.

[0079] As best shown in FIGS. 4a and 4b, to connect the first and second retention strap sections 82 and 84, the inner end 86a first moves toward the rings 78a and 78b and passes upwardly through both rings 78a and 78b, before looping over the top of the ring 78b. The inner end 86a then threads downwardly into a gap 90 between the rings 78a and 78b and continues down and through the ring 78a before extending away from the rings 78a and 78b in the opposite direction as it had originally approached. The first retention strap section 82 thus folds back on itself to form a tail region 82a.

[0080] As will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the overall length between the outer ends 72a and 72b can therefore be adjusted by changing the extent to which the inner end 86a of the first retention strap section 82 is pulled through and past the rings 78a and 78b of the adjustment element 78. Alternatively stated, the retention assembly length can be adjusted by changing the length of the tail region 82a.

[0081] It is noted that the adjustment element 78 and the retention strap 76 are preferably cooperatively configured to facilitate manual adjustment of the retention assembly length while avoiding excessive inadvertent changes to the length thereof (e.g., as during transport or other external operations). For instance, a very thin and slippery retention strap paired with oversized rings might lead to excessive inadvertent slippage, whereas an overly thick and friction-producing strap paired with rings so small as to barely be able to receive the strap ends might be suitably secure but too difficult to adjust.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the rings 78a and 78b are D-rings. However, other shapes are permissible, as are other styles of retention system/element that similarly provide securement and adjustment based on a woven-through interface.

Retention Loops

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the outer ends 72a and 72b of the retention assembly 16 are in the form of retention loops 92 and 94, respectively. That is, regardless of the particular configuration of the adjustment element 78, the retention strap 76 preferably forms a pair of retention loops 92 and 94. The retention loops 92 and 94 preferably define respective strap-receiving or retention openings 96 and 98.

[0084] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, when the retention assembly 16 is in place, the connection portions 40 (or, alternatively described, the loops 58 thereof) at least in part extend through the respective strap-receiving openings 96 and 98 so as to be at least in part received by or within respective ones of the loops 92 and 94. More broadly, at least a portion 100 of each lifting strap unit 34 preferably extends through the corresponding one of the retention openings or strap-receiving openings 96 and 98.

[0085] Thus, the retention assembly 16 acts to at least some extent to restrain the movement of the connection portions 40. In particular, provided the retention assembly 16 has been tightened sufficiently, the loops 92 and 94 of the retention assembly prevent the loops 58 of the connection portions 40 from slipping off the lifting lugs 18. Most preferably, as described in a broad sense, the retention assembly applies tension to each of the loops 58 of the connection portion such that they are drawn inward toward the main body 20 of the equipment 12 and, in turn, are retained on the lifting elements or lugs 18.

[0086] It is particularly noted that, when the equipment-handling assembly 24 is engaged with lifting equipment (not shown), subsequent loading of the lifting element section 38 and, in turn, the connection portion 40 thereof (due to the weight of the equipment 12), aids in maintaining the connection portions 40 on the lugs 18. Furthermore, in some instances, the external lifting portions 44 will be pulled radially inward by the lifting equipment, leading to corresponding inward shifting of the upper portion of the sidewall 30 and, in turn, of the connection portions 40. This will also aid in maintaining the position of the connection portions 40.

[0087] However, when the equipment-handling assembly 24 is not engaged with lifting equipment (e.g., when the equipment 12 is disposed within the bag assembly 14 but the bag assembly 14 is simply at rest on a surface, as at a storage or transfer facility), the forces associated with lifting are not present and outward slippage of the connection loops 58 from the lugs 18 is increasingly likely if a retention assembly 16 is not used.

[0088] That is, the retention assembly 16 releasably retains the lifting strap unit 34 in the engaged configuration when the lifting force is removed.

[0089] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, the portions 100 are each part of the connection portions 40 and, more broadly, the lifting element sections 38. However, it is noted that in some embodiments of the present invention, the portions received with the strap-receiving openings of the retention loops may instead by defined in whole or in part by the external lifting portion or another part of the external operation section.

[0090] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, the retention loops 92 and 94 are fixed in looped form. That is, the retention loops 92 and 94 are not configured to be opened or resized (although reshaping due to the inherent nature of the strap 76 may occur if the strap 76 is sufficiently flexible). More particularly, the retention loops 92 and 94 each include an overlapping region 102 or 104 at the bases thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, this overlapping region 102 or 104 is secured via stitching, although other permanent or semi-permanent (i.e., non-openable and non-recloseable) techniques or materials, including but not limited to glues, adhesives, heat seals, staples, rivets, buttons, snaps, and so on are permissible according to some aspects of the present invention.

[0091] Therefore, as will be readily apparent from FIG. 3, the retention loops 92 and 94 are preferably positioned about the connection portions 40 before the connection loops 58 are positioned to receive the lugs 18.

Method of Transporting Equipment Using Equipment Transport Bag System

[0092] As will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the above-described equipment transport bag system 10 is well suited to safely and securely transport equipment 12 having a lifting element 18, such as the transformer 12 having the lug 18. For instance, a preferred method broadly includes the steps of: positioning at least a part of the equipment 12 in the interior 26 defined by the bag 22; engaging the lifting element 18 with the lifting strap unit 34 attached relative to the bag 22; lifting the bag 22 and the equipment 12 by applying a lifting force to the lifting strap unit 34; and retaining the lifting strap unit 34 on the lifting element 18 when the lifting force is removed. Most preferably, the lifting element 18 is engaged by the lifting element section 38 of the lifting strap unit 34.

[0093] The step of retaining the lifting strap unit 34 on the lifting element 18 when the lifting force is removed is preferably achieved by positioning the retention strap assembly 16 relative to the lifting element 18 and to the lifting strap unit 34 such that the retention strap assembly 16 at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting strap unit 34 relative to the lifting element 18. This step preferably includes using the retention strap assembly 16 to apply tension to the lifting strap unit 34, thereby restricting shifting of the lifting strap unit 34 relative to the lifting element 18.

[0094] More specifically, such positioning of the retention strap assembly 16 is preferably relative to the lifting element 18 and the lifting element section 38, such that the retention strap assembly 16 at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting element section 38 relative to the lifting element 18.

[0095] The positioning step preferably includes positioning the lifting element 18 at least in part in the element-receiving opening 56 defined by the lifting strap unit 34, with positioning of the retention strap assembly 16 relative to the lifting element 18 and the lifting element section 38 being such that the retention strap assembly 16 at least substantially restricts shifting of the lifting element section 38 relative to the lifting element 18.

[0096] In a preferred method, the lifting strap unit 34 is disengaged from the external lifting mechanism (not shown) after the retention strap assembly 16 has been positioned relative to the lifting element 18 and the lifting strap unit 34. More particularly, in a preferred method, the external operation section 42 of the lifting strap unit 34 is disengaged from the lifting mechanism after positioning of the retention strap assembly 16 has occurred.

[0097] Although it is permissible in some methods to apply the above steps to only a single lifting element 18, it is also permissible to engage multiple lifting elements 18, if available. For instance, the above method applies equally well to equipment 12 having a pair of lifting elements 18 and a bag assembly 14 including a bag 22 and pair of lifting strap units 34 attached relative thereto, with each of the lifting elements 18 being engaged by a corresponding one of the lifting strap units 34. The retention strap assembly 16 is positioned relative to each of the lifting elements 18 and each of the lifting strap units 34, such that the retention strap assembly 16 at least substantially restricts shifting of each of the lifting strap units 34 relative to the corresponding ones of the lifting elements 18.

[0098] As will be readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, in such a method, the retention assembly 16 is preferably used to apply tension to both of the lifting strap units 34, with tightening of the retention strap assembly 16 occurring between the pair of lifting strap units 34.

[0099] It is also noted that, in a preferred method, the step of positioning the retention assembly 16 relative to at least one lifting element 18 and lifting strap unit 34 includes the step of positioning a given one of the retention loops 92 and 94 around the corresponding one of the lifting strap units 34 such that at least the previously described portion 100 of the lifting strap unit 34 extends through the retention loop 92 or 94.

Retention Assembly with Selectively Securable Retention Loops

[0100] Although the retention loops 92 and 94 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b are fixed closed in nature, selectively openable and closeable retention loops fall within the scope of some aspects of the present invention.

[0101] For instance, FIG. 5 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 210 of the second embodiment are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag system 10 of the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first embodiment should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the second embodiment, as well.

[0102] Similarly to the equipment transport bag system 10, the equipment transport bag system 210 of the second preferred embodiment includes a retention assembly 212. However, in contrast to the closed loops 92 and 94 of the first preferred embodiment, the retention assembly 212 of the second preferred embodiment includes retention loops 214 (only one shown) that are selectively openable and closeable to facilitate case of placement of each retention loop 214 relative to a corresponding portion 216 of an associated lifting strap unit 218.

[0103] More particularly, the retention loop 214 in FIG. 5 is selectively secured in a closed position by use of hook-and-loop fasteners 220. However, it is permissible according to some aspects of the present invention for selective securement to be achieved through use of any one or more components selected from the group consisting of hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, hooks, reusable and releasable adhesives, buttons, suction elements, and more.

[0104] Each lifting strap unit 218 preferably includes a connection portion 222 including a connection loop 224. As will be readily apparent from FIG. 5, in contrast to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4b, it is not necessary that the retention loop 214 be positioned about the connection portion 222 before the corresponding connection loop 224 is positioned relative to a lug 226. Rather, the connection loop 224 may be positioned to receive the lug 226, and the retention loop 214 may thereafter be formed around the connection loop 224. That is, the retention loop 214 may, while in an open configuration, be manipulated around the already-positioned connection loop 224 and then shifted into a closed, looped configuration in which the hook-and-loop fasteners 220 engage one another.

[0105] That is, expanding on the methodology described above with respect to use of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, positioning of the retention assembly 212 of the present embodiment may include the step of opening and then closing the retention loops 214 to facilitate positioning of the retention loops 214 around the corresponding lifting strap units 218.

[0106] Alternatively described, rather that featuring fixed overlapping regions 102 and 104 as in the first embodiment, the retention loops 214 of the second preferred embodiment each include an adjustable, openable and closeable overlapping region 228 defined by the presence of the hook-and-loop fasteners 220 (or another selectively securable element or elements).

Retention Assembly Secured Directly to Lifting Element Section

[0107] FIG. 6 illustrates a third preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 310 of the third embodiment are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag systems 10 and 210 of the first and second embodiments. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first and second embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the third embodiment, as well.

[0108] Similarly to the equipment transport bag systems 10 and 210, the equipment transport bag system 310 of the third preferred embodiment includes a retention assembly 312. However, the retention assembly 312 of the third preferred embodiment is directly connected to a securement portion 314 of a lifting element section 316 of a load-bearing strap unit 318.

[0109] More particularly, in the illustrated embodiment, stitching 320 extends through and interconnects the following: an overlapping end region 322 of a retention strap 324; the securement portion 314 of the lifting element section 316; a sandwiched portion 326a of a bag sidewall 326; and a dual-layered securement portion 328 of an external operation section 330 of the load-bearing strap unit 318.

[0110] It is noted that, while stitching 320 that extends through all of the aforementioned layers is preferred, it falls within the scope of some aspects of the present invention for fewer layers to be secured by stitching or by a given set of stitches. That is, multiple stitch sets could be utilized, and/or other connection means may alternatively or additionally be used. For instance, the stitching could be supplemented or replaced by glues or adhesives, heat welding, and/or fasteners.

[0111] Furthermore, although generally permanent connection is preferred, in alternate embodiments the retention assembly might be selectively securable and removable relative to the securement portion of the lifting element section. For instance, cooperative hook-and-loop elements could be provided on the retention assembly and the securement portion. Of course, any selectively securable elements should be sufficiently strong as to not separate under normal loading associated with tightening of the retention assembly (e.g., as through a length adjuster like the adjustment element 78 of the first embodiment).

Retention Assembly with Hook-and-Loop Adjustment Element

[0112] FIG. 7 illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 410 of the fourth embodiment are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag systems 10, 210, and 310 of the first through third embodiments. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first through third embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the fourth embodiment, as well.

[0113] Similarly to the equipment transport bag systems 10, 210, and 310, the equipment transport bag system 410 of the fourth preferred embodiment includes a retention assembly 412. The retention assembly 412 is configured similarly to the retention assembly 16 of the first preferred embodiment, except in the configuration of an adjustment element 414. More particularly, the adjustment element 414 of the fourth preferred embodiment includes a hook-and-loop fastener 416.

[0114] In greater detail still, the retention assembly 412 includes a retention strap 418 including first and second retention strap sections 420 and 422. The first retention strap section 420 includes an inner end 420a, and the second retention strap section 422 includes inner end 422a.

[0115] The first inner end 420a is simply defined by a termination of the strap section 420. However, the second inner end 422a forms a loop 424 through which a buckle 426 that is part of the adjustment element 414 extends. That is, the loop 424 secures the buckle 426 to the second retention strap section 422.

[0116] To connect the first and second retention strap sections 420 and 422, the inner end 420a first moves toward the buckle 426 and passes upwardly through an aperture 428 defined thereby, before looping over the top of the buckle 426 and extending away therefrom in the opposite direction as it had originally approached. The first retention strap section 420 thus folds back on itself to form a tail region 430.

[0117] The tail region 430 is securable to a receiving region 432 defined on the first retention strap section 420. More particularly, hooks 434 are distributed along the receiving region 432, and loops 436 are distributed along the tail region 430. Reversal of this arrangement, with hooks on the tail region and loops on the receiving region, or provision of both hooks and loops on each of the regions, is also permissible.

[0118] As will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the overall length of the retention assembly 314 can therefore be adjusted by changing the extent to which the inner end 420a of the first retention strap section 420 is pulled through and past the buckle 426 of the adjustment element 414. Alternatively stated, the retention assembly length can be adjusted by changing the length of the tail region 430.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the buckle 426 is rectangular. However, other shapes are permissible, as are other styles of element that similarly provide securement and adjustment based on a woven-through or pulled-through interface. For instance, the D-ring arrangement of the first embodiment could replace the buckle of the fourth embodiment, with the hook-and-loop fastener remaining as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0120] It is also noted that securement of the tail region could be via a different mechanism or omitted entirely without departing from the scope of some aspects of the present invention.

Retention Assembly with Tooth-Lock Adjustment Element

[0121] A portion of a retention assembly 512 in keeping with a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 8a and 8b. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the retention assembly 512 are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the retention assemblies 16, 212, 312, and 412 of the first through fourth embodiments. Still further, the retention assembly 512 of the fifth preferred embodiment is well suited for use in whole or in part in place of any one or more of the respective retention assemblies 16, 212, 312, and 412 of the equipment transport bag systems 10, 210, 310 and 410 of the first through fourth embodiments. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first through fourth embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the fifth embodiment, as well.

[0122] The retention assembly 512 is configured similarly to the retention assembly 16 of the first preferred embodiment, except in the configuration of an adjustment element 514. More particularly, the adjustment element 514 of the fifth preferred embodiment includes a toothed buckle 516.

[0123] In greater detail still, the retention assembly 512 includes a retention strap 518 including first and second retention strap sections 519 and 520. The first retention strap section 519 includes an inner end 519a, and the second retention strap section 520 includes an inner end 520a.

[0124] The first inner end 519a is simply defined by a termination of the strap section 519. However, the second inner end 520a forms a loop 522 through which the buckle 516 extends. That is, the loop 522 secures the buckle 516 to the second retention strap section 520.

[0125] To connect the first and second retention strap sections 519 and 520, the inner end 519a first moves toward the buckle 516 and passes upwardly through an aperture 524 defined thereby, before looping over the top of the buckle 516. The inner end 519a then passes down into a jaw 526 of the buckle 516 so as to be captured between two (2) opposed sets of teeth 528 before extending away from the buckle 516 in the opposite direction as it had originally approached. The first retention strap section 519 thus folds back on itself to form a tail region 530.

[0126] The tail region 530 is preferably tucked into a securement loop 532, as illustrated. However, other tail region securement methods (including the previously described hook-and-loop method) may be used. The tail region may also be left loose without departing from some aspects of the present invention.

[0127] As will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the teeth 528 act to restrict inadvertent slippage of the first retention strap section 519 within the adjustment element, such that an overall length of the retention assembly 512 remains constant or at least substantially constant except when altered intentionally.

Retention Assembly Securing Ringed Lifting Strap Units

[0128] A sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 9. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 610 are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag systems 10, 210, 310, and 410 of the first through fourth embodiments and the retention assembly 512 of the fifth embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first through fifth embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the sixth embodiment, as well.

[0129] The equipment transport bag assembly 612 of the equipment transport bag system 610 includes a pair of load-bearing strap units 614 (only one illustrated), each of which includes a lifting element section 616 for engagement of a lug 618 and an external operation section 620 for engagement with lifting equipment or similar (not shown). The lifting element section 616 and the external operation section 620 each include respective flat main bodies 622 and 624 and respective receiving loops 626 and 628 formed at distal ends 630 and 632 of the main bodies 622 and 624.

[0130] In greater detail, the lifting element section 616 is substantially formed by a first strap 634. An overlapping portion of the first strap 634 forms the main body 622 and a securement portion 636 that secures the lifting element section 616 to a bag 638 of the bag assembly 612. The receiving loop 626 is formed at the distal end 630 of the main body 622 by a continuous portion of non-overlapping first strap 634 extending between and connecting overlying layers 622a and 622b of the main body 622. The receiving loop 626 defines a channel therethrough for receiving the base of a ring 640 that receives the lifting lug 618.

[0131] Similarly, the external operation section 620 is substantially formed by a second strap 642. An overlapping portion of the second strap 642 forms the main body 624 and a securement portion 644 that secures the external operation section 620 to the bag 638. The receiving loop 628 is formed at the distal end 632 of the main body 624 by a continuous portion of non-overlapping second strap 642 extending between and connecting overlying layers 624a and 624b of the main body 624. The receiving loop 628 defines a channel therethrough for receiving the base of a ring 646 configured for engagement by an external lifting mechanism, etc.

[0132] The rings may also be connected to the straps in an alternative manner. For instance, either or both rings might instead be sewn, glued, riveted, stapled, or otherwise fixed directly to the strap (i.e., without the use of a receiving loop).

[0133] In a preferred embodiment, the rings 640 and 646 are D-rings. Other shapes and configurations of the rings fall within the scope of the present invention, however, including triangular, circular, oval, square, rectangular, and so on.

[0134] A retention assembly 648 is secured about the lifting element section 616 in a manner similar to that of the retention assembly 16 of the first preferred embodiment.

[0135] As noted above in relation to a preferred method of use for the first preferred embodiment, the step of engaging the lifting element with a lifting strap unit attached relative to the bag may in some instances include the step of positioning the lifting element at least in part in an element-receiving opening defined by the lifting strap unit. Whereas in previously discussed embodiments such an element-receiving opening was formed by a loop of a strap, it is noted that the rings 640 (only one shown) of the present embodiment define the element-receiving openings.

Retention Assembly Secured Directly to Bag Sidewall and Associated with Pass-Through Lifting Strap Units

[0136] A seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 10. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 710 are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag systems 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, and 610 of the first through fourth and sixth embodiments and the retention assembly 512 of the fifth embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first through sixth embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the seventh embodiment, as well.

[0137] The equipment transport bag system 710 includes a transformer 712 and an equipment transport bag assembly 714. The equipment transport bag assembly 714 preferably includes a pair of load-bearing lifting strap units 716 (one shown) and a bag 718.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment, each load-bearing lifting strap unit 716 is cooperatively formed by a single strap 720 attached relative to the bag 718. Formation by discrete straps is also permissible, however.

[0139] Preferably, the strap 720 defines a strap opening 722 in association with each of the load-bearing lifting strap units 716, with the two (2) strap openings 722 (only one shown) each being configured to receive a corresponding lifting element or lug 724 of the transformer 712.

[0140] Similarly, the bag 718 preferably defines a pair of bag openings 726 (only one shown) disposed to facilitate coordination with the strap openings 722. That is, the bag 718 is preferably configurable such that corresponding ones of the strap openings 722 and the bag openings 726 are at least in part aligned relative to one another to facilitate contemporaneous extension of the corresponding lifting element 724 through the strap 720 and the bag 718.

[0141] More particularly, the strap openings 722 and the bag openings 726 are preferably at least in part aligned with each other when the bag 718 is in an expanded configuration. Even more preferably, the strap 720 and the bag 718 are secured to each other adjacent the strap and bag openings 722 and 726 in such a manner that the corresponding strap and bag openings 722 and 726 are continuously maintained in at least partial alignment with each other (including in and during transitions between collapsed, intermediate, and expanded configurations of the bag 718).

[0142] In greater detail still, the strap 720 is preferably secured to the bag 718 in overlying engagement therewith at the corresponding pairs of strap and bag openings 722 and 726.

[0143] The corresponding strap and bag openings 722 and 726 cooperatively form an aperture 728. A reinforcing element 730 is preferably provided within each aperture 728 and is configured to receive a load transmitted by the corresponding lifting element 724 extending therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing element 730 is in the form of a grommet or ring 730 (e.g., a metal ring or hard plastic ring), although other forms of reinforcement might additionally or alternatively be provided.

[0144] A retention assembly 732 is secured directly to a sidewall 734 of the bag 718. In the illustrated embodiment, for instance, the retention assembly 732 is stitched to the sidewall 734 and the strap 720 via stitching 736. However, it is permissible for the stitching to extend only through the retention assembly and the sidewall, and/or for additional or alternative securement techniques to be used. Such techniques include but are not limited to adhesives or glues, thermal bonding, riveting, stapling, and integral formation. Such techniques may be generally permanent or intended to facilitate selective removal, as discussed in more detail above.

[0145] As noted above in relation to a preferred method of use for the first preferred embodiment, the step of engaging the lifting element with a lifting strap unit attached relative to the bag may in some instances include the step of positioning the lifting element at least in part in an element-receiving opening defined by the lifting strap unit. Whereas in previously discussed embodiments such an element-receiving opening was formed by a loop of a strap or a discrete ring, it is noted that the present embodiment forms such an opening 722 directly through the strap 722 itself.

Retention Assembly Securing Arced Lifting Strap Units

[0146] An eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 11. It is initially noted that, with certain exceptions to be discussed in detail below, many of the elements of the equipment transport bag system 810 are the same as or very similar to those described in detail above in relation to the equipment transport bag systems 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 610, and 710 of the first through fourth and sixth through seventh embodiments and the retention assembly 512 of the fifth embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, redundant descriptions and numbering will be generally avoided here. Unless otherwise specified, the detailed descriptions of the elements presented above with respect to the first through seventh embodiments should therefore be understood to apply at least generally to the eighth embodiment, as well.

[0147] The equipment transport bag system 810 includes a transformer 812 and an equipment transport bag assembly 814 including a bag 816 and an equipment-handling assembly 818. The equipment-handling assembly 818 preferably includes a pair of load-bearing lifting strap units 820.

[0148] Each load-bearing lifting strap unit 820 includes a strap 822 that forms an arcuate section 824 or external operation section 824 that extends upwardly and laterally above an upper margin 826a of a sidewall 826 of the bag 816.

[0149] Each load-bearing lifting strap unit 820 also includes a pair of looped lifting element sections 828 each associated with a respective one of the arcuate sections 824.

[0150] The bag assembly 814 includes a retention assembly 830 secured to each of the arcuate sections 824 to facilitate retention of the lifting element sections 828 on lugs 832 of the equipment 812. More particularly, the retention assembly 830 applies inward tension on each of the arcuate sections 824 to pull them and the bag sidewall 826 inwardly. This in turn restricts outward shifting of the lifting element sections 828.

[0151] The illustrated retention assembly 830 features selectively securable loops 834, each including hook-and-loop fasteners, and a buckle plus hook-and-loop adjustment element 836. However, as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, various configurations of retention assembly are suitable for use with the arcuate sections 824.

[0152] It is noted that, in contrast to previously described embodiments, the retention assembly 830 of the present embodiment is attached to and engages the external operation sections 824 of the strap units 820, rather than the lifting element sections 828 (as would correspond to the engagement approach in previously disclosed embodiments). Such an approach may be readily adapted to any of the previously described embodiments as well, although the effectiveness of the approach will vary in keeping with other design distinctions. That is, securement of a retention assembly to one or more external operation sections is preferably only performed if sufficient retention effects are still achievable to maintain engagement of the lifting elements by the lifting element sections.

CONCLUSION

[0153] Various equipment transport bag systems are described in detail in: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/951,330, entitled EQUIPMENT BAG WITH CLOSURE SLEEVE, filed on Apr. 12, 2018, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,266,307 on Apr. 23, 2019; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/026,942, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG, filed Jul. 3, 2018, and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020/0010247 on Jan. 9, 2020; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/523,084, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSFER BAG, filed Jul. 26, 2019, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,358,753 on Jun. 14, 2022; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/054,605, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG, filed Nov. 11, 2022, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,702,249 on Jul. 18, 2023; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/342,558, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG, filed Jun. 27, 2023, and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023/0339656 on Oct. 26, 2023; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/528,269, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG, filed Dec. 4, 2023, and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2024/0109690 on Apr. 4, 2024; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/665,033, entitled EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT BAG WITH DIRECT EQUIPMENT LIFTING CONNECTION, filed May 15, 2024, the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0154] As will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the various retention assembly embodiments described herein may be readily used with or adapted for use with the systems described in the above-referenced patents, publications, and applications.

[0155] It will also be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that additional variations of the retention assembly fall within the scope of some aspects of the present invention. For instance, designs that generate tension beyond simply that associated with manual tightening are envisioned. For instance, tightening could occur in an automated manner. Furthermore, a retention assembly in accordance with some aspects of the present invention could include one or more tension-generating elements such as elastic regions or springs.

[0156] It is noted that features of one or more embodiments described above may be used in various combinations with each other and/or may be used independently of one another. For instance, although a single disclosed embodiment may include a preferred combination of features, it is within the scope of certain aspects of the present invention for the embodiment to include only one (1) or less than all of the disclosed features, unless the specification expressly states otherwise or as might be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily limited to the combination(s) of features described above.

[0157] The preferred forms of the invention described above are to be used as illustration only and should not be utilized in a limiting sense in interpreting the scope of the present invention. Obvious modifications to the exemplary embodiments, as hereinabove set forth, could be readily made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0158] Although the above description presents features of preferred embodiments of the present invention, other preferred embodiments may also be created in keeping with the principles of the invention. Furthermore, as noted previously, these other preferred embodiments may in some instances be realized through a combination of features compatible for use together despite having been presented independently as part of separate embodiments in the above description.

[0159] The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on the Doctrine of Equivalents to determine and access the reasonably fair scope of the present invention as pertains to any apparatus not materially departing from but outside the literal scope of the invention set forth in the following claims.