Compact Diaper Band and Baby Changing Station

Abstract

A compact diaper bag includes externally accessible dispensers of baby care supplies such as diaper/hand wipes, disposal bags and absorbent tissues. When the bag is opened, interior pockets for baby-care items such as diapers, lotion, powder, spare clothes, hand sanitizer, and the like can be accessed. The bag can be further expanded into a diaper changing configuration comprising a changing surface flanked by two dispensing bag portions attached on opposing sides of a foldable pad structure that functions as a more or less padded baby support and comprises said changing surface. All dispensers (e.g. wipes, bags, tissues) are accessible and within easy reach in both an expanded (changing station configuration) state and a collapsed (folded) state of the bag. Moreover, the diaper bag in its compact/folded state includes a separate pocket accessible from outside the closed bag (e.g. via a recloseable opening located on bottom area of bag) that can be used to enclose one or more items needed quickly for diaper changing, such as a ready diaper. Said item(s) in the pocket can then be present, laying atop the changing pad (so as to be immediately and conveniently available), when the bag is opened and expanded into a changing station configuration. The bag is adaptable to growth of a child including reconfiguration to remove the changing pad after the child no longer requires diapering.

Claims

1. A diaper bag, comprising: a central foldable diaper changing pad portion fixed to a remainder of the bag and unfoldable into a baby changing station configuration and vice-versa into a folded configuration and comprising a center portion of both a folded compact configuration and an unfolded diaper changing station configuration of the diaper bag; a plurality of flanking supplies storage and dispensing portions, configured to provide ready access to diapering supplies, fixed to the changing pad portion, one on either side of the center changing pad portion and positioned to enable them to help keep a baby on said changing pad portion; and, a releasable closure cooperating with a folded configuration of the central foldable diaper changing pad portion to hold the bag in a compact configuration when folded and enabling the diaper bag to be transformed from an unfolded baby changing station configuration, folded into a compact state, and held in the compact state by virtue of the closure and vice-versa enabling opening of the diaper bag into the expanded state by opening the closure, wherein in the compact state of the bag a plurality of diapering supplies are readily accessible without opening the closure.

2. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, further comprising releaseable attachments between the pad and dispensing portions, whereby the pad is removable.

3. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, further comprising provision for dispensing of wet wipes, tissues and disposable diaper sanitary containment bags from the dispensing portions when the bag is in the folded compact configuration and the changing station configuration.

4. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a pocket formed in the folded changing pad accessible when the bag is in the folded compact configuration.

5. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 4, configured so that when the bags releasable closure is released and the bag is inverted to deploy to a changing station configuration, a diaper in said pocket is resting conveniently on the changing pad portion for diapering in the changing station configuration.

6. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of additional interior compartments for carrying and organizing child care supplies within the interior of the dispensing portions of the bag.

7. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, wherein the changing pad further comprises a multiplicity of foldable panels which can be folded together so as to itself hold the pad in a folded state in cooperation with the dispensing portions when the bag is in the closed configuration.

8. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, further comprising at least one of: a removable and reconfigurable strap; a cover flap hiding at least one diapering supply dispensed from a dispensing portion of the bag; a means to hold the bag open but not fully deployed to a diaper changing station configuration when the bag closure is opened; an additional closure for one of a flap and a pocket comprising a magnetic closure; an additional closure allowing access to the interior of a dispensing portion without opening the bag closure; an attachment between each dispensing portion and the changing pad portion, allowing the changing pad portion to be removed and the bag to be reconfigured without the changing pad portion; and a pocket for a touch screen device, configured to allow control of the device via the touch screen while the touch screen device is in the pocket.

9. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, wherein the bag closure extends around the periphery of the bag where the changing pad is not connected to the dispensing portions, whereby the changing pad can be completely enclosed in the bag, and if the changing pad is removed from the bag, a compartment between the dispensing portions can be formed which is enclosed relative to the environment of the bag.

10. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 1, the changing pad further comprising a multiplicity of foldable panels, foldable in such a way that a surface on which a child rests in changing a diaper is folded upon itself, and a surface comprising the bottom of the pad when deployed is folded upon itself, the two surfaces being isolated from each other when the pad is in the folded configuration.

11. A diaper bag and changing station apparatus, including: a foldable changing pad foldable into a multiplicity of stacked panels; a plurality of diaper bag storage and dispensing portions foldably attached to the changing pad so that the changing pad is between the two storage and dispensing portions both in a folded, compact, state of the apparatus as well as in a deployed diaper changing state of the apparatus; and a closure configured to cooperate with the apparatus in folded configuration to releasably hold the apparatus in the folded compact state, wherein diapering supplies are accessible from the outside of the dispensing portions both when the apparatus is deployed to a changing station configuration and when it is in the folded compact configuration.

12. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 11, the changing pad being foldable in such a way that a surface on which a child rests in changing a diaper is folded upon itself, and a surface comprising the bottom of the pad when deployed is folded upon itself, the two surfaces being isolated from each other when the pad is in the folded configuration.

13. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 12, further comprising releaseable attachments between the pad and dispensing portions, whereby the pad is removable and the bag is reconfigurable to adapt to differing child care needs as a child for whom the bag is carried grows and no longer requires diapering.

14. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 13, further comprising a pocket formed in the folded changing pad accessible when the bag is in the folded compact configuration, said pocket being defined in the pad so that when the bag's releasable closure is released and the bag is inverted to deploy to a changing station configuration, an item contained in said pocket is resting conveniently on the changing pad portion for diapering in the changing station configuration.

15. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 14, further comprising at least one of: provision for convenient dispensing of wet wipes, tissues and disposable diaper sanitary containment bags from the dispensing portions when the bag is in both the folded compact configuration and the changing station configuration; a plurality of additional interior compartments for carrying and organizing child care supplies within the interior of the dispensing portions of the bag; a removable and reconfigurable strap; a cover flap hiding at least one diapering supply dispensed from a dispensing portion of the bag; a means to hold the bag open but not fully deployed to a diaper changing station configuration when the bag closure is opened; an additional closure for one of a flap and a pocket comprising a magnetic closure; an additional closure allowing access to the interior of a dispensing portion without opening the bag closure; an attachment between each dispensing portion and the changing pad portion, allowing the changing pad portion to be removed and the bag to be reconfigured without the changing pad portion; and a pocket for a touch screen device, configured to allow control of the device via the touch screen while the touch screen device is in the pocket.

16. A collapsible folding diaper changing station and diaper bag, including: a foldable changing pad portion, folding into six portions; a plurality of supply holding dispensing portions, foldably attached to the pad portion and positioned adjacent and on either side of the folded changing pad portion when the station is collapsed, and positioned on either side of the pad when deployed, helping to keep a baby positioned on the pad portion when deployed, and separating the pad portion from the environment when collapsed, the folding of the diaper pad portion helping to hold at least a portion of each dispensing portion adjacent the other dispensing portion in a folded and collapsed state; and, a closure configured to releasably hold the station and diaper bag apparatus in the folded state for carriage, and selectively allow it to open for deployment to an expanded configuration for changing a baby's diaper.

17. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 16 configured to enable the following proceedure for reconfiguring the bag from a deployed changing station configuration to a closed configuration: folding the pad portion into said stacked panel portions wherein the lower surface of the diaper pad contacts only other portions of the lower surface of the changing pad, thereby sequestering contamination thereupon from other portions of the changing pad and bag; folding the dispensing portions around said stacked panel portions; and, using the closure to hold the apparatus in the folded more compact state.

18. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 17, further comprising attachment portions allowing the changing pad to be removed from the dispensing portions and the bag to be reconfigured comensurate with changing childcare needs as diapering is not any longer required.

19. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 18, further comprising a bag closure extends around the periphery of the bag where the changing pad is not connected to the dispensing portions by said attachment portions, whereby the changing pad can be completely enclosed in the bag, and if the changing pad is removed from the bag, a compartment between the dispensing portions can be formed which is enclosed relative to the environment of the bag.

20. A diaper bag as set forth in claim 19, further comprising at least one of: provision for convenient dispensing of wet wipes, tissues and disposable diaper sanitary containment bags from the dispensing portions when the bag is in both the folded compact configuration and the changing station configuration; a plurality of additional interior compartments for carrying and organizing child care supplies within the interior of the dispensing portions of the bag; a removable and reconfigurable strap; a cover flap hiding at least one diapering supply dispensed from a dispensing portion of the bag; a means to hold the bag open but not fully deployed to a diaper changing station configuration when the bag closure is opened; an additional closure for one of a flap and a pocket comprising a magnetic closure; an additional closure allowing access to the interior of a dispensing portion without opening the bag closure; an attachment between each dispensing portion and the changing pad portion, allowing the changing pad portion to be removed and the bag to be reconfigured without the changing pad portion; and a pocket for a touch screen device, configured to allow control of the device via the touch screen while the touch screen device is in the pocket.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0022] The invention will be more particularly described and its features illustrated with reference to example embodiments shown in the appended drawing figures, wherein:

[0023] FIG. 1 is an oblique perspective view of an example diaper changing bag in accordance with the invention, the example embodiment being shown in a folded, closed, and more compact state;

[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to that of FIG. 1 of that example embodiment bag, with a disposable wipes flap/cover shown open to reveal a dispensing means of a disposable wipes dispensing portion otherwise hidden under the closed flap illustrated in FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the bag shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, taken from an opposing direction and showing opposite side (hidden side in the figures) of the example apparatus as shown FIGS. 1 and 2, depicting dispensing openings—in this illustrated embodiment implementation being long narrow button-hole-like treatments, which may be closed by the inherent propensity for the textile material of the bag to close up, or by virtue of magnets or other closure means, but here as illustrated are open with diapering supplies extending therethrough (as they would appear after dispensing one of each of the supplied items); and which openings can function to provide access to an interior of this illustrated dispensing portion of the bag, for dispensing items such as disposable poly bags (as shown) and absorbent tissues (such as widely commercially available facial tissues, as shown) therethrough;

[0026] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the example bag shown in FIG. 1, here turned upside down and showing the underside of the diaper changing bag (now at the top in the figure), where a pocket opening onto the bottom of the bag is created by the folded configuration, and whereinto items can be fit, such as a disposable diaper, shown being inserted or withdrawn and partially in the bag and out of the opening; and wherein said pocket can include a closure such as a sewn-in magnet pair or the like (or a plurality of same), which are hidden in the drawing figure, being behind at least one layer of textile material in the view shown, but which allow relatively secure closure of the pocket opening shown.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the example embodiment bag shown in previous drawing figures, the bag shown opened, the view illustrating a configuration following opening a top closure (separating an example zipper closure, as provided in this illustrated embodiment). The view reveals an attached (integral) and folded changing pad sandwiched between two dispensing portions of the bag. One dispensing bag portion contains pockets to receive refills of diapering supplies and/or packet dispensers described herein for dry wipes (tissues) and disposal bags in the illustrated example (and which also includes another pocket area for other things, such as extra diapers, and additional pockets to carry other baby care supplies) as shown. The other dispensing portion of the bag, as shown, has a pocket into which can be inserted a diaper (wet) wipes packet/dispenser (such as one of the widely commercially available examples) for dispensing (such pre-packaged) moist wipes and which can also include one or more additional pockets for carriage/storage of other baby care items;

[0028] FIG. 6 is a plan (i.e. from above looking down) perspective view of the example diaper changing bag shown in the previous figures, shown here in an open or unfolded, expanded (changing station configuration) state, illustrating the example changing pad portion unfolded, with dispensing bag portions attached on opposite sides, and also illustrating how diapering supplies are within convenient reach as dispenser slots, openings, or other means in the bag portions (as shown) are facing the user; and also how the two dispensing portions of the diaper bag flank the changing pad and can act as “bumpers” to help a baby (not shown) stay on the pad; wherein a diaper (which is also shown in FIG. 4 being inserted between the folds) is now revealed to be positioned to be found sitting atop the changing pad portion when the bag is deployed/unfolded to the changing station configuration (open or expanded state) shown;

[0029] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the diaper bag embodiment shown in FIG. 6 being folded in a first step of folding (FIGS. 7-10 illustrate the diaper changing bag in the process of being folded up into its fully folded and collapsed state—such as shown in FIG. 1—from the opened configuration shown in FIG. 6);

[0030] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 in a next example folding step;

[0031] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the example embodiment shown in FIG. 8 in a next example folding step;

[0032] FIG. 10 is top a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 in a next example folding step wherein the dispensing bag portions are being closed, closure being effected using a zipper closure in the illustrated embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 11 is an image of an example embodiment of a diaper bag in accordance with the invention in a closed state;

[0034] FIG. 12 is an image of the example embodiment of a diaper bag shown in FIG. 11 from the opposite side, with dry tissues and sanitary diaper disposal bags partially pulled from the dispensing portion of the bag to illustrate dispensing of same (as these would ordinarily be more tucked into the diaper bag, less visible, yet readily accessible);

[0035] FIG. 13 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 12 turned over, a bottom side shown facing up, and a pocket ordinarily closed (e.g. by magnet closures) being opened and a disposable diaper being placed therein;

[0036] FIG. 14 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 13, with said pocket now closed with the diaper (now hidden) held therein;

[0037] FIG. 15 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 14, now again showing the top of the bag, with a top closure zipper opened, and the image revealing the interior of the dispensing portion of the bag shown in elevation view in FIG. 12, with another spare diaper, a packet of dry tissues accessible as shown, as well as pockets configured for holding other things therein shown by way of example;

[0038] FIG. 16 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 15, showing the interior of the other dispensing portion of the bag, containing a dispensing packet of wet wipes; and further, showing said packet adjacent a dispensing opening which is covered by a cover flap portion on the left side of the bag in this view (said cover shown facing the viewer in FIG. 11); the packet of wet wipes as well as room for additional items in that portion of the bag being shown therein in the image comprising this figure;

[0039] FIG. 17 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 16, now completely opened to a changing station configuration by reversing (turning over) the bag and pulling the two dispensing portions (one dispensing wet wipes as just discussed at the top of the image, and one dispensing tissues and disposable bags at the bottom of the figure) apart optimally in one fluid and relatively gentle motion, thereby pulling the magnet pair closure at the bottom of the bag apart and unfolding a changing pad ‘automatically’ (and in the air as the apparatus is brought gently down onto a supporting surface) which changing pad in this figure is now revealed with the diaper shown in FIG. 13 laying on top of the changing pad ready for diapering as the bag has settled onto a surface as shown in the image, this occurring (again ‘automatically’) as the top surface (shown) of the changing pad portion comprises the interior walls of the pocket shown in FIG. 13;

[0040] FIG. 18 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 17, now being folded up in a first folding step by folding the changing pad portion in half along a longitudinal center seam, thereby bringing the magnetic closure back into closing contact and the bottoms of the two dispensing portions of the diaper bag adjacent to one another again;

[0041] FIG. 19 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 18, showing a second folding step where the changing pad is folded along two transverse seams so as to be reduced in size to fit folded within the diaper bag, and also to further hold the two dispensing portions together in the folded configuration;

[0042] FIG. 20 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 19, showing a third folding step where a dispensing portion of the bag (wet wipe dispensing portion in the figure, but it could have been the other portion if the bag was folded ‘right to left’ in FIG. 18 instead of ‘left to right’ as is shown there) is folded back over the now-folded changing pad portion;

[0043] FIG. 21 is an image of the diaper bag shown in FIG. 20, showing a forth folding step where the two dispensing portions are folded together and the bag oriented upright so that the top closure (zipper in the example shown) is ready to be closed, which will bring the diaper bag back into the closed configuration shown first in FIG. 11;

[0044] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a deployed example embodiment of the invention showing additional/alternative features, exposed or hidden zippers being illustrated by showing the hiding fold in outline convention;

[0045] FIG. 23 is an oblique view of the bag shown in FIG. 22 from above, in this view the bag is in its normal (undeployed) state, and access to the interior of dispensing portions without opening the bag itself is illustrated;

[0046] FIG. 24 is a side view of another example embodiment of the invention adapted to carry and provide convenient access to a smartphone (shown in hidden line convention as it is in a pocket interior of the flap), of which a larger sized phone example is accommodated by a relatively larger cover flap for the wet-wipe dispenser (which is hidden behind the phone and flap closed over it in this view);

[0047] FIG. 25 is an oblique, partially cut away, view from above of another example embodiment adapted for carrying a cell phone. The flap in this view is smaller, and a smaller phone size is accommodated, which is illustrated through a clear plastic sheet between the viewer of the figure and the phone contained in the pocket within the flap; and,

[0048] FIG. 26 is a plan view of a deployed example embodiment of the invention illustrating additional (or alternative) features, some of which are shown in outline convention.

[0049] Like reference numbers refer to like (but not necessarily identical) structure(s) throughout and across the embodiment(s) shown in the various drawing figures. The drawing figures illustrate examples including embodiments preferred at the time of filing of the disclosure, and are given by way of illustration and elucidation of, but not necessarily by way of limitation of, the invention (or of the scope of inventive subject matter to be claimed).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0050] With reference initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, the diaper changing bag 1 in its fully collapsed or folded (closed and most compact) state can be appreciated as relatively diminutive compared to most prior art bags (not shown), yet as will be described will contain essentials for at least one, and typically several diaper changes. The illustrated compact configuration of the invention example embodiment bag is maintained by closure of the top of the folded configuration, combined with the folded configuration of a diaper changing pad portion 16. This stabilization in compact form can be achieved by a closure 2, in this example a conventional zipper 11, shown having its zipper teeth (elements) engaged in a closed state by having placed the insert pin (conventional, hidden) in the zipper stop/retaining box 9, and having drawn the slider 10 across to close the bag. As will be appreciated, other closures could be used, such as are typically used to close bags or purses, for example hook and loop fastener closures, toggle, latch, tuck and twist lock closures, magnetic closures, detent/interference closures (e.g. snap closures, coin purse closures), (and hybrids such as magnetic/detent closures), to name some examples. With some of such closures (e.g. closure-catch tuck locks, and other latch and twist-lock hardware), provision of an overlapping flap (conventional not shown) may be advantageous, and such may extend rearwardly in the figure and fold behind the top of the bag as shown.

[0051] The salient property of the closure 2 is that it releasably joins two storage/dispensing portions 15, 17 of the bag 1, each containing compartments for storage and (particularly) for the convenient dispensing of diapering supplies (as will be described below), and holding sandwiched therebetween (and in turn being held close together by) a folded changing pad 16 portion of the bag connected to the dispensing portions at the bottom of the bag (when in the compact state shown). The illustrated embodiment of the invention in that closed state (as illustrated in the figure) is approximately 8.5″×11″ on the side and about 2″ to 6″ inches thick when stocked with diapering supplies (the thickness being entirely dependant on the number and nature of supplies selected and how they are stowed by the child caregiver user). It is intended to be compact so as to fit easily in a larger tote bag (conventional not shown) if needed. Yet it is a stand-alone baby care accessory, and can be carried alone and self-sufficiently used.

[0052] The bag 1 can be provided with a versatile strap 40 with D-rings at each end that can be configured to be clipped in on either a single swivel clip 14 to function as a wrist strap (as shown in FIG. 6 as well as this figure), or to two swivel clips 14 (also connected to D-rings 13 on each of two opposing sides of the bag), one on each of the two opposing sides of the bag (e.g. as seen in FIG. 4) to provide a purse-strap configuration. As will be appreciated, the strap comprises D-rings (that are clipable by swivel clasp/clips 14) so the strap can be connected and disconnected at will. This means the bag can be configured (or the strap configured) so as to enable the bag to be hung most anywhere typically desired (e.g. attached to a handle of a stroller, or connected to the strap of another bag to hang alongside, or to hang from a door handle or other convenient attachment place in an automobile—to name just a few examples). Also it will be appreciated that instead of D-rings on the ends of the strap, additional swivel clips could be used. The configuration shown (swivel clips on the bag, D-rings on the strap) economizes hardware, and the number of swivel clips is two instead of the four needed if also provided on the strap. Note also that one swivel clip is provided on one dispensing portion on one end of the bag, and the other is provided on the opposite dispensing portion on the opposite end of the bag; with corresponding D-ring on the opposite dispensing portion in each case. This is done purposely in this example and functions as described below. It will be appreciated however, that two swivel clips can be provided on one dispensing portion and two corresponding D-rings on the other dispensing portion in another embodiment (e.g. the example bag shown in FIGS. 11-21).

[0053] With reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and now particularly also FIG. 5, the swivel clasp 14 in each case can be connected to a D-ring 13 on each end of the bag 1, as well as to one or both D-rings on the ends of the strap 40, as mentioned. In the illustrated embodiment the swivel clasp 14 is attached on each side of the bag to different dispensing portions, one to the near side in the FIG. 15) and one to the far side (17). This is purposely done in the illustrated embodiment so that when the purse strap configuration is used (the b-rings 13 on the strap being connected to the respective swivel clasps at each end of the bag 1), the bag can be partially opened as shown, and the strap, when over the shoulder of a user supporting the bag, is connected at each end to a different dispensing bag portion 15, 17 and tends to hold the bag upright and deters unfolding, facilitating access to the interior pockets without (and in discouragement of) unintentionally deploying the bag into the fully open changing station configuration (shown in FIG. 6). As will be appreciated however, having the swivel clasps attached to the respective D-rings 13 will securely hold the bag from unfolding while accessing the interior of the respective bag portions 15, 17. This provides the functional advantage of being able to open the closure 2 and access the contents of the dispensing bag portions 15, 17 without having the bag unfolding fully. The strap 40 still supports the bag symmetrically (the sum of forces acting through the center of mass/gravity of the bag assuming it is loaded uniformly). In another embodiment a further releasable connection (conventional, not shown, such as another swivel clasp, or webbing and a side-release buckle) could be provided to releasably hold the bag in the folded position regardless of the closure 2 being open or closed (instead and/or independently of the swivel clasps engagement of the strap D-rings, or of strap swivel clasps (if provided) engagement of bag D-rings or swivel clasps). In another embodiment (e.g. as shown in FIGS. 11-21) the swivel clips are both provided on the same dispensing portion, and thus the bag will not hang directly upright. When the bag 1 is opened partially as shown in FIG. 5 it will tip slightly further as the center of mass shifts position. In any case salient features of the configuration include being able to open the bag, without it coming unfolded and fully deploying to a changing station configuration, to access items therein, as well as customization for user preference, as well as for provision of numerous ways to carry the bag and hang the bag from (or otherwise attach it to) other structure.

[0054] As will also be appreciated, the strap 40 needs to be made long enough to accommodate opening the bag 1 completely if it is attached at each end to only one (and a different one) of the two dispensing portions 15, 17. Otherwise the strap would need to be disconnected, or to be attached to only one dispensing portion of the bag; so that it remains on that side of the apparatus as the bag is opened to accommodate opening completely into the changing station configuration (shown in FIG. 6). Thus, in the illustrated embodiment provision is made for connection and disconnection of the strap to accommodate user preference in attachment point(s). Provision for adjustment of the length of the strap (e.g. by looping the strap back upon itself and use of strap adjustment hardware—conventional not shown) can also be made in another embodiment.

[0055] With reference now particularly to FIG. 2, a disposable moistened wipe (wet wipe, diaper wipe) dispensing functionality of one dispensing bag portion 15 can be better appreciated. A flap or cover portion 12 can be easily released and lifted up to reveal an opening 20 configured to allow to dispensing of such disposable wipes 18 from either a custom-sized reloadable magazine (hidden in this view, not shown) or advantageously a conventional purse-size package (again, hidden) of such wipes. The flap or cover 12 is releasably secured with a flap closure 42, which can be a sewn-in magnetic pair closure for easy/efficient access and relatively effortless closure. Other known closure types can be substituted, but magnetic pair closure types offer advantages, e.g. in ease of use, at the time of disclosure; and they can be and are used throughout the apparatus examples shown and described herein to hold pockets and flaps closed.

[0056] The size and configuration of the opening 20 and a pocket within the bag portion 15 (hidden in this view but positioned just behind the fabric outer wall of the bag portion 15) is chosen to accommodate standard packaged wipes and containers therefore (e.g. such as may have recloseable openings or lids 19) widely commercially available in the U.S.A. In another embodiment, a custom (diaper bag-specific) refillable dispenser container or magazine (not shown) can be used as mentioned—sized to fit within said pouch (again just behind the wall of the dispensing portion 15 configured to hold the container or packet to dispense through the opening 20). However, accommodation of most all “purse size” or small(er) packets or containers of wet wipes readily purchasable is preferred at the time of this disclosure due to convenience for the user (to simply switch out an empty package for a new one, “off-the-shelf,” as needed).

[0057] Turning to FIG. 3, the other dispensing bag portion 17 can include a plurality of dispensing openings (21, 23 in the illustrated embodiment) and corresponding pouches within the bag portion (the pouches are hidden just behind the fabric outer wall of the bag in this view). Diapering supplies such as absorbent dry tissues/wipes 22 and disposable polymeric resin bags 24 (for containing and sealing away odor and septic contents of used diapers and wipes, for example). Provision for other things (and other pouches and openings—not shown—if desired) can be provided in another embodiment (such as to hold and provide access to lotion, talcum powder, and medication for diaper rash, to name some examples). At the time of disclosure it is preferred that two interior pouches be provided adjacent the openings 21, 23 to the outside of this dispensing portion, configured accommodate prepackaged tissues and disposal bags (e.g. purse-size packets), however as mentioned the internal arrangements can be different and/or the number of openings can be altered to provide for dispensing of more or less items.

[0058] The configuration of the openings 21, 23 shown in the example embodiment is in each case essentially a slit, like a large button hole, but can include piping or other trim/finish around the openings. The natural lay of the textile of the dispensing portion 17 of the bag 1 tends to bias the openings closed in the example embodiments, as will be appreciated. However the tissues 22 and bags 24 are immediately accessible just behind the fabric outer envelope of the bag at these openings. In another embodiment, closures (e.g. magnetic pair elements (not shown) sewn into the area adjacent the openings 21, 23 of the bag portion 17 to further bias them closed) can be provided. Zippers or other closures can be used alternatively. Also, in another embodiment (not shown) flaps sewn to the outer surface of the bag portion and removably/selectively covering the openings can be provided; and these can further comprise provisions for holding such flaps closed. As will be appreciated, closures such as magnetic pair elements, hybrid detent/magnetic closures, hook and loop closures, snaps and clasps of various types, or one of the other myriad known ways of providing convenient releasable closure for flaps covering/uncovering the dispensing portions comprising the openings 21, 23 may be advantageous to employ in this connection, depending on flap configuration.

[0059] With reference to FIG. 4, looking at the underside of the bag 1 in the folded (collapsed) state, a pocket 26 is inherently created (between folds) in the folded changing pad 16. Items needed for diapering, such as a disposable diaper 25 shown, can be inserted therein. An advantage of the configuration is that items in this pocket are found lying on top of the changing pad 16 when the bag is fully opened into the changing station configuration (i.e. as shown in FIG. 6). This is by dint of the fact that the interior surfaces of said pocket are formed by the folded upper surface (45 in FIG. 6) of the changing pad. Magnet closures (50 in FIG. 6) can be provided to keep the pocket closed and contents (e.g. the diaper 25 shown) contained therein.

[0060] Looking now at FIG. 5, the bag is shown opened, but not fully opened or deployed to a diaper changing configuration (see FIG. 6), and it will be noted that with the swivel clasp clips 14 engaged with the D-rings 13 connecting the dispensing bag portions 15, 17 on each end of the top of the bag, the bag is prevented from opening fully as discussed above. As mentioned previously, in another embodiment a separate connection means for the strap 40 could be provided, so that the strap can be connected independently of the swivel clasps 14 of the bag 1 (e.g. by providing another swivel clasp (not shown) at each end of the strap 40, instead of a D-ring 13 there in the example embodiment). However, it will be appreciated that (as mentioned above) only two swivel clips (provided on the bag) are required in this illustrated embodiment, and the strap is attached using one or both of the swivel clasp clips to engage the D-rings at each end of the strap. The swivel clasps are used to both releasably hold the bag back from opening fully, and to attach the strap 40; and further, they each can be used to clip the bag 1 to other things.

[0061] This open, but not deployed (fully, all the way to a diaper changing configuration), state of the bag 1 illustrated shows approximately how wide open the bag 1 will open when the zipper closure 2 is opened (i.e. by drawing the slider 10 all the way across the top of the bag and disengaging the insert pin 3 from the stop/retaining box 9 and slider 10 of the zipper mechanism, so that the zipper closure separates completely), but the bag is not able to be opened all the way to enable unfolding of the diaper changing pad portion 16 and conversion into the changing station configuration due to the releasable connection provided by the swivel clips as discussed above. In this illustrated configuration the bag functions essentially as a relatively space-economized (smaller) and compartmentalized tote bag (with diaper changing supplies specifically contemplated), and with storage pockets within the dispensing bag portions 15, 17 accessible through the thus opened top of the bag. The attached and folded changing pad portion can also be seen sandwiched between the two dispensing portions when the zipper closure 2 is opened, and it will be appreciated that pockets within each dispensing portion and/or each dispensing portion itself can further comprise closures so they can be individually opened or closed, but which are here shown opened to reveal compartments and certain of the contents within.

[0062] Items a caregiver desires to have handy in the diaper bag 1, in addition to wet wipes 18, dry tissue 22, disposal bags 24, and one or more diapers 25, already mentioned, can be placed in the bag in one or more of the compartments of the bag dispensing portions 15, 17 as illustrated. For example one bag dispensing portion 17 in the illustrated example, in addition to having pockets for disposal bag and dry tissue packaging 31, 32 (respectively), can have a pocket for one or more extra disposable diapers 25 (additional to the one or more ready diapers (25 in FIG. 4) enclosed in the reclosable pocket (26 in FIG. 4) formed in the folds of the changing pad portion 16. Also, a plurality of additional pockets for baby care supplies 30, 34 can be provided to contain additional items (e.g. such as baby lotion, talcum powder, hand sanitizer, or the like—conventional, not shown).

[0063] The other dispensing portion 15 of the bag 1—in addition to including a pocket to contain a packet of wet wipes (18 in FIG. 2) insertable therein so as to be accessed through an opening 20 in the bag portion 15 covered by the cover portion (12 in FIG. 2)—can include one or more additional pockets for other items, such as a change of baby clothes 37, or gloves for the caregiver (conventional not shown) or medicaments (conventional not shown) for baby care, or the like.

[0064] As will be appreciated each dispensing portion 15, 17 of the bag 1 can be provided with its own closure 38 as alluded to above, such as one or more pairs of magnetic closure elements sewn into the bag lining in the illustrated embodiment. But as will be appreciated, other closures, such as zippers, hook and loop fastening strips, clasps, coin purse closures, buttons, toggles, snaps, to name some examples (not shown, conventional) can be used instead of magnet pairs for closure. Providing closure for each portion is advantageous in that they each can remain closed when the bag is opened fully to its changing station configuration.

[0065] With reference now to FIG. 6, the bag 1 is shown unfolded to its expanded state (diaper changing station configuration). As mentioned this is very easy to do, and is accomplished in one sweeping motion turning the bag over as the dispensing portions 15, 17 are drawn apart. From the configuration shown in the previous figure, first the two swivel clips 14 are disengaged from the D-rings 13 of the opposing dispensing portions 15, 17. Then the two dispensing portions 15, 17 are grasped—one in each hand—and flipped (reversed, i.e. turned upside down) while being pulled apart slightly. The changing pad portion 16 of the bag unfolds and the apparatus settles onto a supporting surface (not sown) with the ready diaper 25 previously inserted between the folds (in pocket 26 formed thereby as previously discussed with reference to FIG. 4) sitting on top of the changing surface 45 of the changing pad portion. This is very easy and convenient, particularly compared with certain prior devices requiring unfolding of the diaper changing pad, and this ease of deployment is due to the folding/unfolding configuration of the apparatus.

[0066] It will be appreciated that in deployment to the diaper changing configuration shown the dispensing portions 15, 17 are individually closed or at least held at the top in each case, so that the contents are contained as they (the portions of the bag 1) is turned upside down and at the same time the dispensing portions are pulled gently apart. This is one of the reasons closures (as described above) are advantageously provided for each of the dispensing portions, in addition to the closure (2 in FIG. 1) which closes the whole diaper bag. It will be appreciated that concerns addressed in configuring the diaper bag are convenience, better facilitating diaper changing, and helping to make child care more comfortable and efficient; all toward a more streamlined diaper changing experience for caregiver and child.

[0067] Moreover, when thus deployed in the baby changing configuration of the bag 1, it will be appreciated that the two dispensing bag portions 15, 17 are now located on either side of the changing pad portion 16 in the deployed state. This positioning on opposing sides of the changing pad surface 45 enables increased security for the baby, as they act as “bumpers” providing subtle restraint on inclination of the baby to roll right or left while being changed. It will also be appreciated that the previously unrealized advantage of having the convenient dispensing means of readily graspable wet wipes 18, dry tissues 22, and sanitary (and odor containing) disposal bags 24 for ready use by a caregiver in changing a baby (as well as when the bag is folded in compact form) is provided in accordance with the invention.

[0068] In this connection, the dispensing bag portions 15, 17 are positioned face up, so the textile cover 12, and sealing cover 19 of the packaging of the wet wipes 18 can be quickly opened, revealing serially dispensable wipes from the dispensing portion 15 on the right side of the changing station configuration as shown in the figure. Likewise the dispensing openings 21 and 23 allow ready access to dry tissues 22 and the sanitary disposal bags 24 from the dispensing portion 17 on the left of the changing station configuration as shown. As will be appreciated, the diaper bag 1 can be mirror-image reversed in right-left and up-down directions, and will retain the advantages discussed herein; preference for orientation with respect to baby and caregiver being the caregiver's option to select in use of the diaper bag 1 in this configuration.

[0069] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the changing pad surface 45 preferably comprises a water-resistant material. In one embodiment a water-impervious polymeric-resin-coated textile can be used. In another embodiment a breathable hydrophobic textile can be used. It will be appreciated that such a breathable water resistant/repellant material (and/or associated coating) is selected from the classes of materials essentially the same or very similar to those fabrics/coatings used for water-shedding rain gear and active wear, and for liquid-defending upholstery and clothing of various kinds, and are widely commercially available. The material can be of the kind where the fibers themselves are hydrophobic inherently by dint of material or through treatment by coating or other fiber finishing, or a combination thereof; or it can be of a kind where the textile fiber is not inherently hydrophobic, but the fabric is treated after weaving portions of the manufacturing process have been done to have this water-repellant property; in any case the material is selected/configured to have these desirable properties of vapor permeability and liquid shedding. Such textiles are widely commercially available from numerous manufactures, as are fiber treatment/coating materials for enhancing the hydrophobic properties of textiles which are otherwise identified as candidate materials. The later case (treatment/coating) in the finishing of such textiles or otherwise treating them for enhanced suitability for this application can be performed in the manufacturing of the device or constituent materials, and it can also be done afterward; e.g. by providing a spray container of such a treatment and treating the diaper pad surface 45 periodically to renew/maintain desirable hydrophobic properties. A combination of inherent (as manufactured), and afterward applied treatment(s) to make the surface hydrophobic (and to continue to be hydrophobic over time) can also be employed.

[0070] In one embodiment, the outer textile layers, and backing, padding, and other layers of the bag 1 configuration (not just the changing pad portion 16 but certainly that portion) can further comprise anti-microbial agents. For example such agents can be incorporated in the fiber material itself, or otherwise in material finishing (in combination with materials to increase the liquid resistance of the fiber itself or the textile after it is woven). The salient feature in this connection is that the fabric material inherently inhibits growth of microbial life, thereby inhibiting potential contaminants, discoloration, and odor associated therewith within the textile matrix.

[0071] In another embodiment a (preferably fiber-reinforced) polymer resin film or sheet can be used as the top layer or surface 45 of the changing pad portion 16. This polymer material can further comprise and incorporate anti-microbial agents. It can be essentially vapor impervious (as opposed to breathable). Such a surface will likely require more careful drying before folding (as migration of water vapor out of the folded changing pad 16 will be more inhibited). However, some users may prefer such a surface, and it could be provided alternative to that previously described. In any case it will be appreciated that mitigation of wetness soaking into the changing pad and minimization of microbial colonization or other contamination are goals in providing the surface 45 and the properties of the changing pad portion 16.

[0072] In this view (FIG. 6) it is also possible to better appreciate the positioning of the one or plurality of magnet closure elements 50 that close the pocket 26 formed by the folded changing pad portion 16. As will be appreciated from the foregoing, magnet pair closures are preferred at the time of disclosure, as they provide the functionality of closing the pocket but also allowing the deployment of the bag 1 into the changing station configuration and re-folding into the more compact configuration essentially without need for direct manipulation of the closure magnet pairs themselves in each case. Two magnet sets are shown, but one set, or three or more sets could alternatively be used. Other configurations of magnet closures can be used. In another embodiment a pair of flexible strips comprising an essentially continuous magnet in each case, or a plurality of discrete magnets in each strip, the two strips forming the requisite sets (pairs) of magnets for easy opening and closing can be sewn into the bag adjacent the dispensing portions 15, 17, for example in cloth tubes formed by stitching two layers of the bag together parallel to the sides of the strip. This strip could be made removable for machine washing in one example implementation. Moreover, other means of providing a closure at this general location, such as those conventional closures discussed elsewhere herein (conventional, not shown) between the inner (bottom when the bag is closed) sides of the dispensing bag portions could be substituted, but may require manipulation prior to deploying the bag to the baby changing configuration shown, and likewise need manipulation to close the pocket 26 after folding the bag, which is avoided with magnet closures, such as the pairs as shown and described in connection with this figure.

[0073] As will be appreciated, magnet pair closures 50 are also advantageous in that in addition to not needing manipulation specifically in deploying or folding the bag 1, they are incorporated in the bag changing pad 16 behind the water resistant surface 45, and accordingly are not at risk of being soiled, and thus do not present additional difficulty in cleaning this area which (as caregivers and those skilled in the art know) will occasionally require cleaning. Moreover, it bears additional emphasis that magnetic pair closures are “automatically”closed with the folding of the bag after a diaper change (folding will be next discussed) as well as not requiring manipulation prior to opening the bag into the changing station configuration. The magnet pairs simply pull apart as the bag is deployed into the changing configuration shown in the figure. This lack of need to manipulate the closure will be further appreciated as particularly advantageous in connection with the following discussion of re-folding the bag after deployment. While other closure systems properly configured can provide this advantage (e.g. hook and loop fasteners/closures), at the time of disclosure magnet pairs have been found to work particularly well in this connection.

[0074] With reference to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, it will be appreciated that the changing pad 16 is subdivided into six panels by seams 55, 56, and 58. By lifting one of the dispensing portions (17 is illustrated for example) and folding the pad along the long (longitudinal) seam 55 by brining the two dispensing portions 15, 17 together (as shown in FIG. 7 particularly) a first folding step is accomplished and the magnet closure pairs 50 are brought back into closing contact. Next, by folding along seam lines 56 then 58, the changing pad 16 is reduced in size to that which fits between the two bag dispensing portions 15, 17 (as shown particularly in FIG. 8).

[0075] It will be appreciated that in the process of deploying, and now in folding the bag 1, the changing pad surface 45 is never in contact with the ground or other supporting surface (not shown). This insulates that surface from contact with soil, dust, microbial contaminants or other undesirable substances which otherwise might be deposited on the changing pad surface (and thus prevents such contaminants from thereafter coming in contact with a baby placed thereon).

[0076] Moreover, it will also be appreciated that anything on the surface 45 is also sequestered from the rest of the bag and the environment of the bag by folding of the pad portion 16. Wetness from cleaning, antimicrobial agents applied, or the like, will be ordinarily contained within the changing pad portion. A vapor-permeable (breathable) nature of the changing pad portion will allow such substances to escape in vapor form (only) in one example embodiment, and militates for using a breathable hydrophobic textile material for the changing pad surface, and indeed for the most part of the outer layers of the bag, if not indeed all of the bag. But if a surface comprising a moisture/vapor barrier is used, and if it is folded up wet, the folded configuration still acts to confine wetness to the folded surface 45 of the pad and tends to keep it from the rest of the folded bag 1 by virtue of interaction of the folds and surface tension of the liquid.

[0077] Turning now to FIG. 9, the folding sequence of closing of the bag 1 is continued. The dispensing bag portion 17 is folded over the changing pad portion 16 as shown. Then the other dispensing portion 15 will be folded to cover the pad on the opposite side (folding under the previously folded pad 16 and bag portion 17 in the orientation of the bag shown in the example shown in the figure).

[0078] Finally, with reference to FIG. 10, the zipper closure 2 is engaged and closing the bag is effected by drawing the slider 10 across, pulling the two element strings 52, 54 of the zipper closure into engagement. It will be appreciated that the folded configuration of the changing pad portion 16, in combination with the zipper closure 2 (and to some extent the magnet pairs closures 50) work together to hold the bag in the closed configuration. As will further be appreciated, the swivel clips 14 can also then be connected to the b-rings 13 at each end of the top of the bag as before discussed, allowing access to the interior of the folded bag without accidentally opening it all the way when the zipper closure is then afterward opened for access to the interior of the dispensing portions 15, 17 as described above.

[0079] With reference now to FIGS. 11-21 the features and advantages just described can be further appreciated. These figures illustrate another example embodiment in accordance with principles of the invention, and the images show it being opened and deployed for diaper changing; and then closed up again for convenient carriage. This sequence is similar to the embodiment previously discussed and consistent with discussion of the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-10. It will be appreciated with reference to FIGS. 11-21 that certain changes in detail can be made within the same overall configuration and provision for functionality discussed above.

[0080] With reference now to FIG. 22 in another embodiment of the invention access to the pockets (hidden in this view) for baby care items such as wet wipes 18, tissues 21, and disposal bags 24, can be provided by supplies pocket closures 4, which are in this illustrated examples, zippers. One or both of these zippers can be hidden zippers, e.g. by providing an overlapping fold 33 (shown in outline) formed integral with the bag 1 material, the exterior fabric being folded and sewn to provide this feature, as is well known in the art.

[0081] This feature can be further appreciated with reference to FIG. 23, wherein it can be seen that the interior of the storage and dispensing portions 15, 17, and baby supplies pockets e.g. 30, 34 are accessible without opening the bag closure 2. An advantage of this configuration is that only that portion of the bag 1 needed to be accessed need be opened at any one instance. This streamlines access to the items stored in the interior of the bag, which can simplify use for the baby caregiver 5.

[0082] With reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, in another embodiment of the invention, the bag 1 can be configured for easy carriage and access to a cell phone 60. In the illustrated example, this is in the cover flap 12 which hides the wet wipe dispenser means (e.g. 18, 20 in FIG. 22). The cover portion 12 can be sized larger (e.g. as shown in FIG. 24) to accommodate larger phones; or it can be smaller (e.g. as shown in FIG. 25). A phone pocket closure 6 is provided for access to a pocket in the flap adapted particularly for cell phones. This can be a hidden zipper (e.g. behind a fold 33 as before described) in one embodiment (the material fold being again shown in outline).

[0083] As will be particularly appreciated with reference to FIG. 25, the interior side of the cell phone pocket can comprise a clear polymeric resin (plastic) dielectric sheet 61. A flexible sheet of such material allows the phone (here a smartphone with a touchscreen 62 face inserted facing the interior clear plastic sheet 61 is particularly contemplated) to be manipulated without removing it from the pocket (e.g. checking messages, using GPS, answering, hanging up, etc. through the plastic sheet material). The dielectric material is chosen for tear resistance, resistance to becoming brittle (excessive cross linking over time), feel and ability to reliably minimally interfere with the capacitive touch screen functionality of the phone 60 contained in the pocket formed in the flap 12. A clear vinyl material, for example, has been found to work well. A sewn or heat-welded seam 63 is provided to contain the phone and keep it sufficiently clear of the magnet closure 42 that the magnetic field therefrom does not harm or interfere with the functionality of the phone 60.

[0084] Turning now to FIG. 26, in another example embodiment the diaper changing pad portion 16 can be made removable. For example, this can be done with complementary zipper attachments 64, 65, the zipper strings of which can be zipped together by a single remaining slider 10, box 9, and insert pin 3 and the two zipper strings 52, 54 remaining of the four after the pad portion is removed. This allows the bag to change in functionality as the child grows. After potty training, it is still desirable to carry certain child care supplies, but the changing pad obviously would no longer be needed, and room can be made for other things by its elimination. In other embodiments other kinds of attachments can be substituted for the zipper attachments. Such as shoelace-like holes and laces, or hook and loop fasteners, or another means of attachment disengageable, but only rarely and with effort (on purpose).

[0085] In this regard the zipper closure 2 of the bag 1 can be made to extend around the periphery of the bag (as shown in outline line convention at 2A). This provides for enclosing the interior of the bag between dispensing portions 15, 17. The zipper strings 52, 54 (and 52A, 54A) are extended to that portion of the periphery not covered by the attachment portion (64, 65) zipper strings, and of course the zipper box 9A and insert pin 3A will be located in mirror image adjacent the attachment portions 65, 64, respectively. This will provide a completely enclosed pocket space between the two dispensing portions, allowing the pad 16 to be completely enclosed, or (after the pad is removed) other things (e.g. a change of clothing, food, toys, snacks, sun screen, to name some examples) to be carried in the spot formerly occupied by the changing pad 16 (and also possibly a spare diaper (25 in FIG. 4) contained in the pocket (26 in FIG. 4) formed by the changing pad portion of the bag).

[0086] And now as can be more fully appreciated with reference to all the drawing figures, the diaper bag 1 in accordance with principles of the invention will provide advantages in convenience, and in cleanliness, and size and organization, and dispensing of child care supplies in use. It is compact, but configured to carry everything required for one or several diaper changes conveniently accessible and organized for ready access and use. Thus it provides advantages to a caregiver user and to a baby being cared for, as ease and speed of tending to the baby's needs are enhanced. Moreover, the bag is adaptable as the child cared for grows, being reconfigurable to meet new and different needs as the child grows.

[0087] While certain example embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention set forth in the claims, and it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific examples given, but rather that the invention be defined by the claims allowed when a patent based on this disclosure issues.