Clipable Article Container

The present invention relates to a secure device for carrying personal items and valuables, and more particularly, to such a device which can be removably secured to a person's clothing or the like.

Concern for the prevention of theft, accidental loss, or general secure containment of personal articles detachably carried on one's person, for travel, sports and fitness, or general daily use, has resulted in numerous inventions intended to address this problem. Many of these inventions include conventional fanny packs, money belts, wrist and shoe attaching pockets, belt supported receptacles, wallets with clip assemblies attachable to a belt and pouches with purported locking clips for securely locking the same to articles of clothing. While the prior art devices referred to provide a limited degree of protection for carrying valuables, they posses certain drawbacks which render them not entirely satisfactory.

Security receptacles which utilize a waist strap such as with money belts and fannypacks decrease comfort and restrict movement. When a money belt is worn under apparel, the user must inconveniently retreat to a private area to retrieve articles. Smaller solutions such as wrist, ankle and shoe pockets all attach to an appendage causing a risk of loss to articles contained due to recurrent movement of the appendage. Additionally, during use of these devices in physical activity, performance and comfort are hindered by the attachment of such a device to an appendage on one side of the body. In addition to advertising valuables, these are subject to limited versatility due to factors relating to their bodily attachment location and means. Security pockets or receptacles incorporated into the construction of garments tend to reduce the aesthetic appeal of such garments and limit containment use to the garment in which the receptacle is incorporated. Wallets and pouches which utilize a neck strap are less accessible if worn under clothing, not concealed if worn outside of clothing, movement constricting, uncomfortable and neck straps may be easily cut allowing the article container to be removed, knowingly or unknowingly from the wearer. Wallets with secure belt loop attachments are limited in that the user must either remove his or her belt in order to position or remove the receptacle. Also, the user is limited to use of the receptacle when wearing a belt or items with a waist strap. Additionally, the receptacle may slide off, when the user undoes their belt to undress or uses the rest room, jeopardizing security of items contained.

Several other inventions have attempted to overcome some of the disadvantages of the previously mentioned disclosures for carrying valuables. A variety of wallets and pouches with removable or permanent clip assemblies attempt to allow the user to removably retain a wallet or receptacle, for carrying items, onto the wearers clothing. Although these attempt to address some of the previously mentioned disadvantages, and are generally closer in category to the current invention, all the receptacles of this nature heretofore known suffer from a variety of disadvantages.

First, the clip mechanism or clipping device utilized is primary in determining how secure the receptacle, and its contents, will ultimately be against inadvertent loss or theft of the receptacle. In previous inventions clipping mechanisms disclosed generally, among other issues, suffer from drawbacks in one or more of the following key areas; gripping effectiveness and security, ease of use, and manufacturability. Generally as with the case with "U" or hairpin style slide on clips such as in U.S. Pat. No. 4,416,315 to Foley (1983) and U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,745 to Roman (1990) and with spring clips, the gripping friction and the ease-of-use are conversely proportionate, limiting the ability of these clips, and thus, devices to provide both ease-of-use and secure gripping means concurrently. For example, if the clipping mechanism is easy to clip onto the items to which it is intended to grip, such as the types suggested above, then it is likely not to deliver a high level of frictional engagement for securely holding the receptacle to the user. Conversely, because it may be designed such that it improves on gripping effectiveness, as with tight spring clip or a barbed "U" clip, it generally falls short on ease-of-use. Thus the harder it clamps, the more force it takes to pinch or actuate the clip for use and removal. Other inventions have attempted to provide better clipping effectiveness with alternative clip designs. These suffer from, among other things, drawbacks in the areas of complexity of use, manufacturing inefficiency and may cause damage to the articles they are intended to clip to. Clips such as those proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,237,583 to Sullivan (1980), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,114,061 to Brady (1992) are examples of clips which are subject to one or more of these disadvantages.

In addition to the above, inventions heretofore known suffer from drawbacks and disadvantages in combinations of the following areas:

Threatened security of receptacle or articles contained

May damage garment or fabric when in use

Causes user discomfort

Poorly integrated features

Limited accessibility

Lacks versatility for range of use

Inconvenient and difficult to use

Inefficient or prohibitive to manufacture

Unreliable in operation and subject to failure

Incorporate odd or complex mechanisms

A need has arisen, therefore, for a comfortable, attractive, convenient, simple, reliable and cost effective device for carrying valuables for use in a wide variety of situations and activities. The article carrying device of the present invention meets this need and overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages.

There has now been developed, and disclosed herein a new and novel device which has a number of advantages not possessed by the products of this type known to heretofore be available. A clipable article container embodying the principles of the invention has a container or pocket portion for containing personal articles; a clip or clamping mechanism or portion, enabling the container portion to be releasably attached to an article of clothing or other item; and means of attaching the clip or clamping portion to the container portion. Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present invention are:

A) To provide a clipable article container which overcomes the above and other shortcomings of known attachable, article receptacles, pouches or wallets.

B) To provide a clipable article container whose clamp allows for it to be more securely lock-clamped to a user or other articles.

C) To provide a clipable article container whose article containing cavities can more securely retain articles.

D) To provide a clipable article container whose clamp and related parts allow it to be clamped to and removed from the user quicker, simpler and easier.

E) To provide a clipable article container which provides superior accessibility to contents of the container while clamped on or not.

F) To provide a clipable article container which can be used more comfortably.

G) To provide a clipable article container which offers versatility in the ways it can be positioned on the user or other items.

H) To provide a clipable article container which can be effectively used for a wider range of activities from everyday use to travel and sports.

I) To provide a clipable article container whose production allows for flexible and cost efficient manufacturing and assembly.

J) To provide a clipable article container whose features are well and efficiently integrated for maximum convenience and functionality.

Still further objects and advantages will become apparent from consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.

In order that the invention may be fully understood, clipable article container in accordance with the invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view, of the present invention, attached in one typical position onto a waistband.

FIG. 1A is a rear view, of the present invention, attached in another position to a waistband.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view showing the container article cavity in an open position.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective showing the container article cavity in an open position.

FIG. 4 is a front view showing the main front components of the container portion.

FIG. 5 is a rear view showing the main rear components of the container portion.

FIG. 6 is a perspective front view showing the holding clamp retention means.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view showing the holding clamp in an open position.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the holding clamp in an open position.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the holding clamp in a closed position.

FIG. 9A is a bottom view of the holding clamp in a closed position.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view showing the holding clamp installed onto the article container.

FIG. 10A is a rear perspective showing the holding clamp installed into the clip retention plate. (Retention plate is not connected to pouch panel for purposes of illustration).

FIG. 10B is a side view illustrating problems which occur without preferred container darts.

FIG. 10C is a front view illustrating problems which occur, in use, without preferred container darts.

FIG. 11 shows a cross section along line 21--21 of FIG. 4 with the holding clamp shown in full in the open position.

FIG. 11A is a cross section along line 21--21 of FIG. 4 with the holding clamp shown in full, in the open position showing an alternative clamp teeth configuration.

FIG. 11B is a cross section along line 21--21 of FIG. 4 with the holding clamp shown in full, in the open position showing an alternative clamp teeth configuration.

FIG. 12 is a cross-section along the line 21--21 of FIG. 4 with portion cut away to show credit card and key.

FIG. 12A is a cross section , as shown in FIG. 12, with a line showing the labyrinth path of the material engaged in the holding clamp when it is closed.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the article container of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13A is top perspective exploded view of the article container showing components of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13B is a top perspective view, of the holding clamp, of the second embodiment.

FIG. 13C is a cross section, of the second embodiment, taken along line 15--15 of FIG. 13.

FIG. 13D is a cross section, of the second embodiment, taken along line 14--14 of FIG. 13 with the holding clamp shown in full.

FIG. 13E is a side view of the second embodiment, seen in FIG. 13.

FIG. 13F is a cross section along line 14--14 of FIG. 13, of the second embodiment, showing the labyrinth path of the material engaged in the holding clamp when closed.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the container showing a zipper closure and snap closure variation.

FIG. 14A is a perspective rear view of the open container showing a key ring feature variation.

FIG. 14B is a front perspective view of an alternative cavity closure configuration while showing the article cavity in an open position.

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view showing the retention plate thumb gripper and clamp opening action, of the preferred embodiment.

FIG. 15A is a top perspective cut-out cross-sectional view of the invention showing the retention plate feed-in ramp.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment showing a one piece lower clamp and plate connected to the container.

FIG. 16A is a cross section view of an alternative embodiment of the invention showing a one piece lower clamp and plate

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of an alternative to cavity closure means while showing the article cavity in an open position.

FIG. 17A is a rear perspective of the container and internal waterproof closure means showing the article cavity in an open position.

In accordance with the present invention a container detachably securable to an article of clothing or other item and for the receipt of articles comprises a container or pocket portion, a clip or clamp portion secured to the container, and a retaining plate for joining the clip portion to the container portion.

Description--Preferred Embodiment

The embodiments described herein have been contemplated for purposes of illustrating the principals of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not to be limited solely to the exact configuration and construction as illustrated and set forth herein.

FIG. 1, of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, shows a clipable article container 22 as worn inside the waistband, of a garment 24, of user 20 in a front position. Clipable article container 22 consists of three main components--a receptacle, pocket, pouch or container portion 22a shown from front and rear views in FIGS. 4 and 5, a holding clamp portion 22b shown from a perspective view in FIG. 7, and a holding clamp retention plate 44 first visible in FIG. 10. Container portion 22a is capable of receiving and retaining various items such as keys, money, food, electronics and the like. Clamp portion 22b allows container portion 22a to be removably secured to clothing or other items. Retention plate 44 allows for clamp portion 22b to be permanently or semi-permanently attached to the container portion.

Container Portion Description--Preferred Embodiment

FIG. 2, a front perspective view of the preferred embodiment, shows container portion 22a comprising a receptacle, container or pouch constructed from two flexible main sheets of material. A container front panel 30 and a container rear panel 48 are suitably cut to shape being overlaid one on the other and connected in some other way to each other along the vertical edges and bottom, thus forming a main container cavity between them. Means of connecting panel 30 and panel 48 include, but are not limited to, stitching, gluing, welding, heat sealing, molding, grommeting and ultrasonic bonding. FIG. 2 also shows that, in the preferred embodiment, panel 30 and panel 48 are constructed as mirror images of one another along the vertical edges (sides) and bottom, however the upper portion of panel 30 and panel 48 will terminate in other named parts for different purposes, whereas panel 30 terminates in a clamp actuating hood, or container clamp interface flap 28. The top portion of panel 30, is folded outwardly upon itself forming a straight fold defining the boundary between front panel 30 and container clamp interface flap 28. FIGS. 2 and 13E, at each end of the straight bordering fold, show two secured corners, short angled darts or seams 28a. The terminating points or corners at each end of the fold are creased inwardly, creating substantially downwardly angled termination points at either end. Darts 28a are formed by sewing or securing across these folds from the underside of container interface flap 28. Darts 28a, along with interface fold between panel 30 and flap 28 form geometry which exerts a biasing effect. This bias holds flap 28 substantially parallel to panel 30, as well as, forms a hood or shallow pocket area on the underside of interface flap 28 where it folds to form front panel 30. Panels 30 and 48 are preferably made from elastic and cushioned material such a neoprene laminated rubber or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2 of the preferred embodiment, the top portion of rear panel 48 is constructed with an elongated protrusion or extension forming a pocket closure extension 26. Fastened to the underside, or fabricated as part of extension 26 is a pull-apart fastening means 56. A clamp flap pull apart fastening means 58 is affixed and positioned on the exterior of container flap 28 such that it is matched to come and stay grippingly into connection with fastening means 56 of extension 26. Suitable materials for fastening means 56 and 58 include, but are not limited to, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, hooks, zippers, tongue and groove, adhesive press tabs, magnetic closure devices, ties, loop straps, clips, turn button fastener, or any other suitable closure or fastening means.

As seen in FIG. 2 of the preferred embodiment, the interior of container rear panel 48, formed by the connection of panel 30 and panel 48, includes several elements. Pull apart fastening means/flap 54 is connected or secured to the top edge of panel 48, at the base of extension 26 around its top and sides. Fastening means/flap 54 runs the width of container portion 22a, (when container portion 22a is positioned upright). Flap 54 protrudes into the article cavity deep enough to provide the ability for its fastening means to come grippingly into connection with its fastening mate, as shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 3, a rear perspective view of the preferred embodiment, also shows that panel 30 is constructed with several elements on its interior wall. Pull-apart fastening means 52 is the mating fastening means for fastening to fastening means 54. Fastening means 52 is connected or secured along its sides and top to the top edge of panel 30, runs the width of container portion 22a and is connected to the interior wall of front panel 30. Fastening means 52 also protrudes into the article cavity deep enough to provide the ability for it to come grippingly into connection with mating fastening means 54. Suitable means of connecting fastening means 52 to the interior of panel 30, and fastening means 54 to the interior of back panel 48 may include, but are not limited to, stitching, gluing, welding, heat sealing, molding, grommeting and ultrasonic bonding. Preferred materials which may provide the multiple functions of flaps 52 and 54 may include, but are not limited to, flexible hook and loop sheet fasteners or other suitable fabric backed or sheet fasteners. Although not preferred, snaps, zippers or the like may also be used. Additionally, in the preferred embodiment, affixed to the interior wall of front panel 30, is key retention means 64 as seen in FIG. 3. Retention means 64 comprises a suitably shaped piece of material affixed to the interior wall of panel 30. This may be constructed in the shape of a slim strip of material secured on both sides as illustrated in FIG. 3. Suitable means of affixing retention means 64 to container walls, include, but are not limited to, stitching, gluing, welding, heat sealing, molding, grommeting and ultrasonic bonding. Suitable material for key retention means 64 or the above retainment element may include, but is not limited to, rubber, plastic, metal, nylon, Lycra.TM., neoprene, PVC, polyethylene, polyurethane, leather, webbing or any other natural or synthetic material which may be cut from sheeting, die cut, woven or molded.

As seen in FIG. 6 of the preferred embodiment, the underside of container clamp interface flap 28 includes clamp closing member retainer 46. Retainer 46 is approximately the size and shape of the underside of container clamp interface flap 28. Retainer 46 is connected to the underside of container clamp interface flap 28 on all sides except a portion in the center of the base edge of interface flap 28. This non-connected area constitutes a closing member retainer opening 46a which is sufficient in size and shape to accept, and retain clip closing member 34 (FIG. 10). Means of attaching closing member retainer 46 to the inside of container clamp interface flap 28 may include, but are not limited to, stitching, gluing, welding, heat sealing, molding, grommeting, weaving and ultrasonic bonding and injection molding. Although a fairly flexible material is preferred, suitable materials for closing member retainer 46 include, but are not limited to, plastics, PVC, polyethylene, Polyurethane, nylon, webbing, leather, metals or any other suitable natural or synthetic material.

Holding Clamp Description--Preferred Embodiment

To enable the container portion to be releasably attached to any given carrier's clothing or the like, a holding clamp portion 22b is provided, the second main component of the preferred embodiment of the invention.

In the preferred embodiment, holding clamp 22b is based on a pivotally engaged over-center cam lever biased locking clamp mechanism. FIG. 7 shows a preferred holding clamp 22b. Clamp 22b is constructed with a holding clamp closing member 34, holding clamp closing member hips 34a, an upper clamp 36, upper clamp teeth 36a, a lower clamp 38 and lower clamp teeth 38a. The lower clamp includes on each side a pair of opposed upstanding flanges 40, each with an opening 42. Upper clamp 36 is biased in the open position as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. Closing member 34, in conjunction with closing member short leg 34b, acts as a lever when closing member 34 is actuated to close or compress upper clamp 36 toward lower clamp 38. Specifically, closing member 34 is pivotally engaged with lower clamp 38 via pins, shafts or closing member short leg projections 34c which engage with flange openings 42.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the preferred embodiment which shows that closing member 34 is substantially L-shaped in cross-section, with a holding clamp closing member short leg 34b angled with respect to the longer leg portion, closing member 34. Pivoting the closing member short leg projections 34c, of closing member 34, about the openings 42, in the direction of arrow C, shown in FIG. 8, actuates leg 34b to engage upper clamp 36 maintaining the upper clamp 36 in a completely closed, maximum clamping or locked position. Closing member 34 is an over-center clamp lever, which exerts a biasing force against upper clamp 36 in the closed position reversibly deforming upper clamp 36 to increase clamping force. Holding clamp 22b may be thus reversibly and selectively locked securely into the closed position when it is snapped closed.

As in FIGS. 7 and 8, upper clamp 36 and lower clamp 38, of the preferred embodiment, are provided with teeth, or frictional engagement means 36a and 38a, respectively, to provide frictional engagement for clothing and the like between the upper clamp teeth 36a and lower clamp teeth 38a and/or holding clamp retention plate 44 (described below). Suitable material for clamp portion 22b and its teeth, or frictional engagement means, may include, but is not limited to the following either alone or in combination--metals, steel, plastics, rubber, thermoplastic or other suitable natural or synthetic material. Suitable means of fabricating clamp 22b may include in total or in combination; molding, forming, slide tool fabrication, stamping and bending, extrusion or the like.

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view, of holding clamp 22b, showing additional details of the clamp. Lower clamp 38 is constructed of a flat base plate having teeth or frictional engagement means on one end and on the other rear end upwardly extending upstanding flanges 40 bent upward from the flat base plate of lower clamp 38 as shown in FIG. 9. These upstanding flanges which are somewhat perpendicular to the flat base plate of lower clamp 38 on either side of the lower clamp 38, contain openings 42. The rear end of lower clamp 38 also includes an upwardly extending bent portion at the base end, retainment bend 38b, having a tongue retainment slot 38c. Tongue retainment slot 38c can be best seen from the underside perspective drawing in FIG. 9A. In FIG. 9, holding clamp 22b also, is constructed with upper clamp 36 having a declined rear portion which terminates on the sides in upper clamp wings 36b and at the base end, a central projection or upper clamp retainment tongue 36c. Upper clamp retainment tongue 36c is received within tongue retainment slot 38c of retainment bend 38b.

Clamp Retention Plate Description--Preferred Embodiment

The third main element of the invention in the preferred embodiment is a clamp retention plate 44, shown in FIG. 6. Plate 44 provides for the permanent, removable or semi-permanent attachment of clamp portion 22b to container portion 22a. Retention plate 44 is a molded, die cut or otherwise suitably constructed plate which contains several cut out areas. Plate 44 is permanently attached on the vertical sides and base edge to container front panel 30 of container portion 22a. The top edge and center area of retention plate 44, where cuts in the plate's edge are positioned, are not affixed to container front panel 30. This allows positioning of holding clamp 22b (described later) between the clamp retention plate 44 and container front panel 30, as seen in FIG. 10. The means of attaching the perimeter areas of clamp retention plate 44 to container front panel 30 include, but are not limited to, stitching, gluing, welding, heat sealing, molding, grommeting and ultrasonic bonding. Suitable materials for clamp retention plate 44 include, but are not limited to, flexible, semi-flexible or rigid plastics, metals, thermoplastic elastomer, rubber, textured sheet plastics either in sheet or injection molding states. These materials may be used alone or in combination to produce plate 44.

Also, as seen in FIG. 6, clamp retention plate 44 contains several cut-out areas. These include a retention plate "U" cut 44a, a plate cut 44b, a plate cut 44c, a plate projection 44d, and retention plate cut indents 44e. Each are cut to shapes and sizes to receive and retain corresponding parts of clamp 22b as shown inserted under plate 44 in FIG. 10. Additional elements to retention plate 44 are shown more closely in FIGS. 15 and 15A. Plate thumb gripper 44f ridges are formed into a small ramp, feed-in ramp 44g on plate 44. Ramp 44g begins flush with plate 44 at the base end of plate 44 and terminates in its highest point at the base of plate cut 44e. Thumb gripper 44f and retention plate feed-in ramp 44g are preferably injection molded or are otherwise suitably formed into plate 44 itself, however these elements may obviously be fabricated separate to the plate and attached via rivets, glue, bonding or via other suitable means.

As can be seen in FIG. 10, in the preferred embodiment, the lower portion of holding clamp 22b, lower clamp 38, shown earlier in FIGS. 7 and 8, is installed permanently or semi-permanently between clip retention plate 44 and container front panel 30. Lower clamp 38 rests parallel to, and is sandwiched between, the exterior of container front panel 30 and the bottom or underside of clip retention plate 44. Once plate 44 is connected as described to container 22a, installation of clamp 22b to container 22a via plate 44 may be achieved, as shown in FIGS. 10, 10A and 11. Starting with clamp 22b in an open position, (mouth open), holding clamp plate 38 is inserted teeth first into cut 44a of plate 44. Clamp plate 38 is inserted until teeth or frictional engagement means 38a protrude or rest under plate cut 44e. In this position, both upstanding flanges 40 snugly fit perpendicular to the sides of plate "U" cut 44a. Plate "U" cut projections 44b (FIG. 10A) wrap around the sides and to the back side of upstanding flanges 40 and rest flat upon lower clamp projection rests 38d. The middle flat area of lower clamp 38 can be seen laying flat against container front panel 30 through plate cut 44c (FIG. 10). The top edge or points of lower clamp teeth 38a rest, either covered in a pre-molded channel in the corresponding location on the underside of plate 44, or actually protrude through plate cut 44d as shown in FIG. 10.

As shown in FIG. 6, plate cut 44d has two parallel channel areas within its opening. FIG. 10 further illustrates that one channel or opening is closer to the base end of clip retention plate 44 and is the area or thin channel formed between plate cut indents 44e of plate cut 44d. This channel area receives lower clamp teeth 38a, when clamp 22b is inserted under plate 44. The second area or parallel opening channel directly behind the channel in which teeth 38a may reside, is sized and shaped as to accept upper clamp teeth 36a or frictional engagement means when the clamp is actuated to rest in its closed position. Plate cut 44c is a cutout area in between plate cuts 44a and 44d whose relative location is shown, but whose function is later described.

As shown in FIG. 11 of the preferred embodiment, clamp closing member 34 is inserted into closing member retainer opening 46a. Closing member 34 rests inside opening 46a, between the inside base portion of container clamp interface flap 28 and base edge of closing member retainer 46. Flap 28 fits over closing member hips 34a thus retaining the closing member 34 in the installed position. Closing member retainer opening 46a is positioned snug around closing member hips 34a and against the upper bend, or upper edge of closing member short leg 34b.

FIG. 12 provides a cross-sectional view of clipable article container 22 assembled in its clamped or closed position with a cut-away. Elements are included of both container portion 22a and holding clamp portion 22b of the preferred embodiment as well as retained key and credit card for illustration. FIG. 12A shows a labyrinth path 76 of the material engaged in the holding clamp when it is closed.

Variations to Preferred Embodiment Description

It should also be appreciated that various elements of all embodiments of the invention may be changed or modified without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example the container portion or parts thereof may be constructed of any semi-rigid or hard materials, molded, formed or cast. Exterior portions for example, could be molded in character forms such as animals. Container cavities and closure flaps may be shaped as desired of flexible or rigid forms. Any number of cavities may be added to the container using flexible or hard materials as desired. Dividing container or clamp elements into separate parts or from separate parts into integrally affixed pieces or one-piece construction may be desirable for enhancing specific functions. One example of this is shown in FIG. 14B, which combines fastening means 56 and 54 into one part. In FIG. 14B, fastening means 54, 56, and 58 are formed of mating hook-and-loop strips. Also, portions of the clamp and plate can be molded as one. Obvious additions may be made to the container in the form of various attachments or pocket means for specific item retainment such as; a key ring attachment of the like as shown in FIG. 14A, mesh panels or pockets etc. Secondary attachment means of the invention to the user may be provided including a tether to secure to a belt loop or backpack, and a belt loop sewn into the outside panel of the container to allow secondary or optional attachment to a belt in this manner. Useful devices may be contained inside or incorporated into the container such as a pager, stop watch, timer, recorder or computer, either permanently or removably, via a pocket with a viewing window, or other obvious retainment means.

Similarly, variations relating to the clamp and plate elements of the invention may be incorporated for special purposes as follows:

Various clamp edge or upper and lower teeth configurations of the preferred over-biased style holding clamp may be utilized providing adequate and forceful frictional engagement and effective clamping action when engaged onto clothing of the user and the like.

As long as the top edge or teeth of the clamp press the engaged fabric into the plate or bottom clamp area, when the clamp is closed, virtually any construction combination of one or two part teeth or friction adding elements to either the plate or clamp is acceptable. For example, the teeth shown in FIG. 11A on the clamp are achieved in this design by being molded into two plates 82a, 82b as illustrated. These plates are then affixed via riveting, bonding, gluing or molded in onto the inside of the upper and lower clamp panels. Alternatively, teeth or friction enhancing forms may be molded in any shape into the clamp retention plate as to enhance secure gripping action. An example of this is shown in FIG. 11B. The bottom clamp teeth or rim 84 are molded into or protrude into the underside of plate 44 further securing the clamp to the plate. The upper clamp teeth 86 terminate in a single un-serrated edge and when actuated force the sandwiched fabric between itself and the friction enhancing serrations or forms 88 of plate 44. These plate teeth or friction enhancing forms may also be made in one piece with the upper and/or lower clamp panels by being molded or formed as one piece. Preferred materials for fabricating this clamp/teeth configuration are metal, plastic or other suitable materials.

Within the spirit of the invention, as an alternative to inserting holding clamp 32 inside plate 44a as indicated in the preferred embodiment, holding clamp 32 may alternatively be affixed directly to container front panel 30, of container portion 22a via other means. These include grommeting or bonding the base of the holding clamp directly onto a plate (with or without cuts) which is either on the outside of the container as is the case with plate 44 or to a plate on the inside of the container in which the grommets or the like would attach the clamp to plate through the fabric of the container. Additionally, the clamp or clip portion may be retained on the container portion via other means such as simply bonding, sewing or riveting or the like, any suitable portion of the clamp portion of the invention to the container portion directly (without a plate element). Other suitable clamp retainment means may be used providing that the clamp is securely retained on the container, as intended, and has the ability to securely engage clothing and the like.

Although the actuating area of closing member 34 is pictured in a square shape in FIG. 7, it may be made in other shapes such as a half-circle, round etc. and still function as intended in an over-center cam style clamp as described in the preferred embodiment. Similarly, the upper and lower clamps, (36 and 38), of the clamp 22b may be made in other suitable shapes such as fanned out or tapered from the tip to the base, to house a wider teeth area and the like. Other elements of the preferred clamp may be modified in this way as desired for special purposes or distinct features. Also, although not preferred, within the spirit of the invention, other style over-center locking clips can be incorporated into the novel design depending on the specific needs and intended use of the container and product. Other style clips that can simply be integrated into the existing novel design include over-center, two-position, clam shell, alligator style, and slide on "U" style clipping mechanisms.

From the description above, a number of advantages of our clipable article container become evident:

Security Advantages

In this respect, the device disclosed herein differs from heretofore available releasably attachable article receptacles in that it provides a combination of novel and superior security components. First it provides superior means of securely clamp locking the container to the user. Secondly, it provides novel cavity closure components and configuration ensuring more secure containment of articles once they are placed inside the container cavity for carrying. The clamping mechanism preferred attains a superior, highly leveraged clamping and true locking holding force on items to which it is clamped. Additionally, the container or cavity portion of the invention intended for the safe keeping of articles is constructed with multiple cavity closure components providing a superior means of safely holding items inside the cavity without fear of loss. Alternatively, the clip may employ an additional locking mechanism for secondary clamp locking means.

Clip Retainment Plate Advantages

Also significant in the invention is the novel clip retainment plate element which in its preferred form provides the following; it enables the clamp to be securely and removably attached to the container portion based upon its strategic voids for receiving the clamp, it incorporates a feed in ramp for easy insertion of fabric into the mouth of the clamp, it contains a specific area and grippers which aid in gaining leverage in using the plate to quickly and easily open the clamp, it spreads the weight load of container contents over a wider surface area when invention is in use, it's configuration in conjunction with the clamp, force the clamped fabric into a labyrinth configuration for further holding effectiveness, finally, it provides teeth or additional frictional engagement qualities to aid in secure clamping effectiveness.

Container Advantages

The container portion of the present invention is constructed to include components which contribute and maximize the comfortable and effective use of the invention. Thus, the container portion is constructed preferably using a flexible and cushioned material, for example-neoprene or laminated rubber, such that articles contained therein cannot poke or jab the user, especially when worn in one desired position, inside a waistband. Additionally, these qualities of the material of the container provide that the movement of the user is not limited or uncomfortable and permits the container to hold items which are sized or shaped differently than itself. Alternatively, the container may be waterproofed or provide for a waterproof compartment inside. It is also preferred, and novel, that a clip hood, cover or flap is formed into the front panel of the container portion which covers and hides the clip from plain view and doubles to provide comfortable and effective means of actuating, or opening and closing the clamp component. Due to the way in which the actuating member of the clip is retained inside the containers hood or flap element, a comfortable two sided gripping surface, leveraged clip opening and a broader surface to actuate the clip are provided. Darts, at each side of the clip hood or cover, form a natural bias and aid in keeping the clip actuating part inside the hood whether the clip is in an open or closed position and importantly ensures that the invention, when worn on a waistband will not accidentally be positioned askew and look cockeyed relative to the horizontal plane of the waistband.

Additionally, preferred in the current invention is a flap which is formed from the back wall of the container and contributes at least three novel features to the invention. First it wraps over and acts to provide a cover to the article cavity opening, it provides a second fastening closure to this cavity and thirdly, when the flap is unfastened to insert or retrieve articles to and from the cavity, it acts as a funnel or guide providing easier, quicker, one-handed and no-looking-required access to the items contained. Importantly, the combination of the clip mechanism and the way in which it is integrated into the container portion's elements enable the user to clamp on, load and un-load, and remove the invention with one hand whereas most other attempted solutions require two hands, more time and attention to use. Additionally, for convenience, items may be retained against a wall or orientated inside the container cavity using pockets, flaps or other article retaining features.

Manufacturing Efficiency Advantages

The novel construction and components of the present invention also allow it to be easily, cost efficiently and flexibly manufactured. The clip and plate components require minimal and inexpensive tooling, if any and are simple, cheap and require a minimum operations to construct. Also, the invention is constructed to allow flexibility, in manufacturing and assembly and thus offer more efficiency. For example, due to design of the components, the clip retention plate may be sewn onto the container or pouch in one location such as a bag maker, and then the clip installed into the plate as a final production step in the same location. Or, the pouch with the plate may be completed and stored for the option of later installing the clip on an as needed basis.

In addition, the present invention is simple, and the components and features are well integrated providing an optimal combination of elements for carrying or portably containing items safely in a highly convenient, comfortable and time and attention efficient manner.

Versatility Advantages

Furthermore, the invention disclosed herein is highly versatile, improving upon some disadvantages to the heretofore known disclosures in the following areas. The current invention may be attached to a variety of items made of various materials from thick and thin to delicate. It is not required to be orientated in any specific position on the user, their clothing, or restricted to using on one's person. For example, it may be attached frontwards or backwards, up-side-down, inside or outside a waistband. It lends itself to use during sports and/or leisure activities. It may be viably used without clamping it, as a conventional wallet or coin purse. It may be worn both in a concealed or un-concealed manner. It enables the user to load or un-load items into the container before or after clipping it on, not one or the other.

Operation--Preferred Embodiment

When not in use clipable article container 22 is generally stored as a semi-flat receptacle, since there are no articles inside, with the clamping mechanism resting in its closed position.

In operation, the clipable article container described above is used and functions as follows. One may begin use of the article container by either loading it first with items to be carried or contained in container 22a and then it may be secured or attached, if desired, to an article of clothing or the like. The alternative, is to first attach the invention, if desired, to an article of clothing or the like and then load it with the items the user intends to carry or contain.

To attach the article container 22 either pre-loaded with articles or with the intention of inserting articles into the container once it is attached, clipable article container is held in one of the user's hands, the other hand is used to pull up or open interface flap 28. The thumb of the hand holding the clipable article container 22 may, for ease of opening, be placed just under flap 28 at the base of plate 44 on plate thumb gripper 44f and retention plate feed-in ramp 44g, while the other hand is used to pull open both flap 28 and closing member 34 which is contained inside flap 28. This action is illustrated in FIG. 15.

In this open position, interface flap 28 is positioned somewhat perpendicular to container front panel 30 as shown in FIG. 10. Because interface flap 28 houses closing member 34 (FIG. 11), when interface flap 28 is pulled up to its open position, closing member 34 is pulled up, thus opening or allowing upper clamp 36 and lower clamp 38 to spring open to their normally open biased position. This open position described for both interface flap 28 and holding clamp 22b is shown clearly in FIG. 10. With the holding clamp 22b in this open position, the user can introduce the edge or portion of any article which may be inserted between the upper and lower clamp including, but not limited to, items such as any clothing, a swim suit waistband, belt, pocket edge, shirt pocket flap, bag strap, backpack and the like.

As described earlier, the fabric or an element of the article being inserted into the mouth of the clamp is slid along retention plate 44 and up plate feed-in ramp 44g (FIG. 15A) assisted by its incline into the mouth of the clamp. Once the article is inserted into the open mouth of holding clamp 22b, clamp interface flap 28, and thus closing member 34, is pushed down in an over center biased position until it stops in its fully closed or locked position. It can thus be seen that the closing member 34 functions as an over-center clamp lever, which exerts a biasing force against upper clamp 36 in the closed position, reversibly deforming upper clamp 36 to increase clamping force. The holding clamp is reversibly locked into the closed position when it is snapped closed. Once article container 22b is clamp-locked onto an article of clothing or the like, articles may be introduced into the main cavity area of article container 22 for secure keeping.

The introduction and safe keeping of articles inside the article container is achieved as follows when the article container is in its clamp-locked position onto an article of clothing or the like or held in a users hands prior to attachment. First, pocket closure extension 26 is pulled up (FIG. 2) to its un-engaged or open position. Then as shown in FIG. 3, pull-apart fastening means & flap 54 and pull apart fastening means 52 are pulled apart and un-engaged to open the top of the main cavity of the container. Any type of items such as those described earlier can then be inserted into the open cavity of the article container. Pull-apart fastening means/flap 54 and pull-apart fastening means 52 are pressed together to a fully fastened position.

Pocket closure extension 26 is pulled over the top edge of interface 28 and secured by the pressing engagement of pull-apart fastening means 56 and pull-apart fastening means 58.

Uniquely, clipable article container 22 can be clipped to clothing or the like in any way desired for use of containing articles. However in FIGS. 1 and 1A, typical use of the invention on pants, shorts or any article of clothing with a waistband is illustrated. FIG. 1 shows clipable article container 22 clipped to a waistband of shorts in a position such that front container panel 30 (FIG. 4) of the container portion lays against or faces the inside of the wearers clothing (not the wearer) and the outside of container clamp interface flap 28 is visible or shows to one looking at a front view of the wearer whereas back panel 48 faces the wearer's body. Therefore in this position, the main cavity for holding articles in clipable article container 22 is sandwiched between the wearer and the inside panel of the wearer's clothing or under garments. This provides an inconspicuous positioning of the article container. The preferred cushioned container construction provides cushioning between articles in the container and the wearer. It's preferred elasticity permits the container to accept articles which are shaped and sized differently than itself. Articles can be placed inside the container 22 while it is either clipped in position on the user or the like, or held in one's hand prior or after clipping to clothing, another article or the like for use. Alternatively, FIG. 1A shows clipable article container 22 clipped in another, typical use of the invention on pants, shorts or any article of clothing with a waistband position such that front container panel 30 (FIG. 4) of the container portion lays against or faces the outside of the wearers clothing (facing the wearer) and the outside of container clamp interface flap 28 is not visible, but faces the wearer on the inside of the waistband. In this case, container rear panel 48 (exterior) would be visible to one looking at a front view of the wearer and front panel 30 faces the outside of the wearer's clothing. Therefore in this position, the main cavity for holding articles in clipable article container 22 lays on the outside panel of the wearers clothing. Articles can be placed inside the container 22 while it is either clipped in position on the user or the like, or held in one's hand prior or after clipping to clothing, another article or the like for use. As suggested earlier, article container 22 may be clamped onto anything or item that clamp 22b can engage to a final closed (closed biased) position. It can also be clamped in any position (to any item) and still contain the items stored inside as intended.

Although a preferred embodiment of the invention has been described above, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiment described. Thus the following additional embodiments and variations are described and illustrated.

Description of Second Embodiment

As shown in FIGS. 13-13E, the second embodiment 70 of the present invention is identical to the first embodiment except for the addition of elements to the container and clamp portions which provide additional or secondary clamp locking means to the container and holding clamp. FIG. 13A, in an exploded view, introduces the two main additional elements, of the second embodiment, a locking pivot 71 and a latch handle 72 and their connecting parts.

Locking pivot 71 is a solid pin type element, in which is made of three parts or areas. The upper half of pivot 71 and the lower half of pivot 71 are separated in the center by locking pivot ring 71b which is a permanently fixed ring element around the belly or mid-section of pivot 71. On the upper half of pivot 71, above pivot ring 71b, there are two pivot holes 71 a on opposing sides of pivot 71 which extend towards each other as deep as possible towards the core or center of the pivot, but are separated in the middle by a solid wall or plate. On the lower half of pivot 71, below pivot ring 71b, on opposing sides, there are two locking pivot projections 71c or bump-like protrusions. Alternative configurations may replace pivot projections 71c with screw threading, screw type flanges, threads or the like to achieve the primary desired result of allowing closing member 34 to be locked, secured or screwed to upper clamp 36 to provide the double locking security means and provides that upper clamp 36 is fitted with the appropriate mating aperture projection receiving elements. Materials for locking pivot include, but are not limited to, plastics, metals or other suitable rigid or semi-rigid materials. Pivot 71 parts may be molded, cast or otherwise fabricated.

As also seen in FIG. 13A, there is a hole made through three elements forming three flap holes 73 which are designed and positioned to accept locking pivot 71. Flap holes 73 are round holes cut, ultrasonically formed, punched, routed, bored, burned or the like all the way through the mid-section of container clamp interface flap 28, closing member 34 and closing member retainer 46. This provides that the pivot may proceed through all three holes and thus visibly protrude to the exterior of interface flap 28 when inserted. Flap holes 73 are a suitable size as to accept locking pivot 71.

FIG. 13A also shows the second part of the locking element of the second embodiment of the invention--a latch handle 72. This is a "D" shaped ring element which may be fabricated from a piece of metal with a round cross-section. The metal is bent into a "D" shape, whereas the mid-point of the straight edge or stem of the "D" is where the two ends of the piece of metal meet. Two straight and opposing bottom pieces of the "D" ring are latch projections 72b. A top rounded portion of the "D" ring, a latch curve 72a, or latch handle element provides means of engaging the locking pivot. Latch curve 72a can be otherwise formed in any shape such as, but not limited to, a round ring, square, round flat coin-like shape with ridges in so much as the form used enables the user to turn, screw in, pivot or engage the pivot or locking device which secures closing member 34 to upper clamp 36. Materials for latch handle 72 and its parts may include, but are not limited to, plastics, metals or other suitable rigid, semi-rigid or flexible materials. Latch handle 72 may be molded, case, formed, extruded, bent or otherwise fabricated.

FIG. 13B illustrates the changes necessary to holding clamp 22b of the first embodiment of the invention for this second embodiment of the invention. The same types of holding clamps as discussed in the first embodiment may be used with two modifications as follows to achieve the secondary locking means of holding clamp 70b of the second embodiment. Holding clamp closing member 34 as shown in FIG. 13B has a round hole cut, drilled, punched, molded, routed, bored, burned or the like through the center of its surface--forming a closing member hole 74. An upper clamp opening or hole 75 is cut, punched, molded, drilled, routed, bored, burned or the like through the center of the surface of upper clamp 36 forming an opening 75. Upper clamp opening 75 creates an oblong hole in the surface of upper clamp 38. On the opposing rounded ends of upper clamp opening 75 there are two upper clamp opening voids 75b. This oblong, o-void or otherwise suitably shaped hole also has two rounded projection indents 75a positioned substantially perpendicular to the long axis of voids 75b.

The second embodiment of the invention is assembled as shown in FIGS. 13A-13D using the above components as follows. As seen in FIGS. 13A and 13D, locking pivot 71 is inserted through hole 74 and holes 73 from a position between upper clamp 36 and holding clamp closing member 34 when clamp 70b is in the open position and has been installed into its final resting position in retention plate 44. The end upper portion of pivot 71, which contains locking pivot holes 71a, should be inserted upwards through hole 74 and holes 73 until pivot 71 reaches the point at which locking pivot ring 71b rests against the underside of closing member 34 and closing member retainer 46. As shown in FIG. 13A, once pivot 71 is installed through hole 74 and holes 73, a washer 72c is placed into position on the upper half of pivot 71. Washer 72c is a stamped, die-cut, molded or otherwise suitably fabricated part made of plastic, metal or the like. Washer 72c can be included as a separate part as shown or can be combined as one part with latch handle 72, providing a smooth running surface molded, formed, or otherwise fabricated integral to itself. Once washer 72c is installed, latch handle 72 can be assembled onto article container 70. As seen in FIG. 13A, the two latch projections 72b are pulled apart forcing the gap between the two projections to enlarge enough to accommodate the diameter of the head of locking pivot 71 in the location of locking pivot holes 71a. The ends of each projection 72c are inserted into locking pivot holes 71a. Due to the resilient nature of the material used for the latch handle, the tips of projections 72c, once inserted into holes 71a springs forward towards one another significantly decreasing the size of the gap between the two to their original, before insertion, position. As mentioned earlier, pivot holes 71a extend towards each other as deep as possible towards the core or center of pivot 71, but are separated in the middle by a thin vertical wall or plate. Given this, as described and shown in FIG. 13C, the tips of projections 72c, once inserted will spring forward to rest, with pressure, against this internal vertical wall or plate. It should be noted that there are other ways of connecting latch handle 72 to pivot 71. Some examples include gluing, providing spline and snap elements, screwing together with conventional fasteners and the like.

Operation of Second Embodiment

Consistent with the first embodiment of the invention, the second embodiment requires the same initial action as is required for engaging the holding clamp onto clothing or the like and inserting items into the container portion. However, in the second embodiment, as described below, the user has the option of engaging a secondary locking device, locking pivot 71 thus providing more security in retaining article container 70 of the second embodiment, onto the user or any items which it is clamped to.

FIG. 13D illustrates the position of holding clamp 70b prior to engagement of the secondary locking means. Closing member 34, housed inside container clamp interface flap 28, is pressed forward such that locking pivot projections 71c are lined up on a vertical axis parallel to the vertical sides of holding clamp 70b. Accordingly, latch handle 72 is lined up vertically thus lining up pivot projections 71c with voids 75b so that when container clamp interface flap 28 and closing member 34 are pressed forward towards upper clamp 36, locking pivot projections 71c pass through upper clamp opening voids 75b and continue to be pushed forward through upper clamp opening 75. Once the locking pivot reaches this point, the user, holding latch curve portion 72a of latch handle 72 turns latch handle 72 until locking pivot projections 71c slide into and are thus retained by upper clamp opening indents 75a. Here locking pivot 71 is in its fully closed and locked position while exerting maximum force onto the garment or the like which is being retained within the mouth of holding clamp 70. Washer 72c, described earlier, as part of the latch mechanism reduces the wear of the turning of latch handle 72 on flap 28 as well as provides a smooth surface to facilitate smooth turning action of handle 72.

This fully locked position is illustrated in cross-sectional view in FIG. 13C, wherein the engaged fabric or material is sandwiched between the bottom end of pivot 71 and the upper inside surface of lower clamp providing additional retention properties. This strong retention of the engaged fabric is achieved through at least two main functional factors specific to this design. First, the constant (locked) pressure exerted upon the fabric by the lower portion of material pivot 71 in its closed position forces the fabric or material in the mouth of the clamp to be tightly retained against lower clamp 38. Secondly, while the fabric or material in the mouth of the clamp is retained by the pressure of the closed position of locking pivot 71, it is further forced through and into the shallow cavity created by retention plate cut 44c superimposed upon the upper interior surface of lower clamp 38. FIG. 13F, shows that the resulting labyrinth path 76 created by the described elements of the second embodiment provides additional retainment security over the single snap locking clamp force of the clamp 22b of the first embodiment. A hole or indent 90 punched in lower clamp 38 adds gripping friction.

Once holding clamp 70b of the second embodiment of the invention is fully engaged and locked onto fabric, clothing or the like, latch handle 72 may be folded over to lay flat against the exterior surface of interface flap 28. At this point, as seen in FIG. 13, fastening means of 56 of pocket closure extension 26 may be fastened to clamp flap fastening means 58 and may partially cover handle 72 and locking pivot or may preferably fully cover these components, provided that extension 26 is sized to fully conceal these components.

Description of Third Embodiment--Waterproof Means

The third embodiment of the present provides the first embodiment with waterproof containment means. This functions to allow articles to be contained and stay dry within the waterproof compartment(s) of the pouch for use of the invention while engaging in activity in water and snow related activities.

If desired the whole main cavity, of the invention, or pockets within it, may be waterproofed as shown in FIG. 17. In this case, a waterproof material is used for the container portion and sealed if necessary at the seams, or a waterproof liner or waterproof bag lining the container portion is used. The waterproof cavity or cavities are then closed in a watertight matter using a waterproof closure such as a waterproof zipper 90 as illustrated, or a flexible tongue and groove type closure or other waterproofing closure means. As shown in FIG. 17, the waterproofed closure means may be attached to the container in place of fastening means 52 and 54 from the preferred embodiment of the invention or otherwise configured to seal off the main cavity or cavities. The container of FIG. 17 further includes hook-and-loop fasteners 92a, 92b.

FIG. 17A shows another configuration of providing one or more waterproof compartments 77a, 77b within the regular container cavity. The container cavity includes hook-and-loop fasteners 78a, 78b, and a flexible tongue and groove closure 79. Therefore items necessary to stay dry, or in an element free environment, can be placed into the waterproof compartment(s) and those that can get wet or don't need to be protected as extensively can be placed into the non-waterproofed compartment.

Means of waterproofing one or more compartment(s) within the main cavity, but not all, are to simply provide a waterproof single pocket or cavity area with waterproof closure inside the main cavity via means described above. Examples of waterproof materials are rubber lamented with nylon (or neoprene), rubber backed nylon, plastic coated materials, PVC, plastics and the like. Seams of the waterproof compartment(s) may be sealed as necessary as described above. Additional compartments may be added as desired in a similar fashion as described for more cavities and buoyancy means may be included via the materials used or air pockets.

Operation of the Third Embodiment of the Invention

Operation of this embodiment is apparent based upon the operational description of the primary embodiment and the above description of the third embodiment.

Summary, Ramifications, and Scope

Accordingly, the reader will see that the clipable article container of this invention can be used to comfortably carry personal items on one's person or attached to another item easily and conveniently.

It provides for superior, highly secure locking attachment to a wide range of clothing or other desired items, thus it cannot be pulled off or inadvertently fall off.

It is simple, quick and easy to attach and remove even with one hand and without damage to clothing.

It provides quick and easy insertion of and access to articles contained within while still providing extra security to such items.

It permits attachment and insertion or removal of articles in any order.

It permits the comfortable portability of items contained within even when used in fitness, sport or outdoor activities.

It permits great versatility in the area or position, at which it may be attached to clothing or other items.

It permits attachment to an array of materials, from thin, and delicate to thick.

It may effectively be used for wide range of activities from everyday use as a wallet to travel, fitness or outdoor activities.

Its elements ensure straight positioning of the article container when clamped on a straight edge.

It provides for highly efficient, low cost, and flexible production and assembly.

It provides for the secure, but removable attachment of the clamp to the container.

It permits long lasting use and reliability.

Its well integrated components maximize convenience and functionality in use.

Although the description above contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus the invention may be embodied in many forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description; and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.